The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office received a request last year from the Mayville Police Department. It involved an independent review of alleged criminal misconduct by former elected officials and employees at Mayville City Hall. It was alleged to the sheriff’s office that prior to 2022, there were significant financial discrepancies, numerous records missing and/or deleted, real estate sales which appeared to be in question, potential open meeting violations and significant city dollars which were not able to be located equaling nearly $700,000. The concerns brought to the sheriff’s office, by the Mayville Police Department, were raised by the current staff of the city of Mayville.

Detectives of the sheriff’s office were assigned to begin a thorough investigation into this highly complex matter. Over a year of complex investigation into the matter, the investigation shows that while there was likely significant mismanagement, no provable evidence of criminal misconduct exists to the level of criminal charges being requested. Additionally, while it was discovered that no evidence exists to prove mishandling of funds, apparent inadequate record keeping made it impossible to complete a thorough analysis of city finances.

This investigation was supplemented by an investigative report by the financial firm Sikich LLP into the sale of city property and the financial practices of the Mayville Community Development Authority. Sikich LLP was employed by the city of Mayville and filed a detailed report in which it indicates in part:

“Based on our observations throughout our engagement with the City of Mayville, it is apparent that recent staff trying to get a handle on prior financial transactions were stymied by poor record keeping. It is recommended that Mayville comply with best practices for financial record keeping and secure comprehensive financial records that provide a clear audit trail of financial transactions.”

Sheriff Dale Schmidt has been approached many times in the community regarding the City of Mayville inquiring into the status of investigations in the city, but to this point has not been able to comment on the active investigation. It is our goal to be open and transparent as we are able, however, it is imperative that we are thorough in the investigation before releasing findings to the public. We appreciate the public’s patience as we completed this investigation. With our detectives' review of the criminal element of these allegations being completed and their report forwarded to the Sheriff late this afternoon, this case is now closed. The process of correcting the apparent significant deficiencies identified during the investigation and the Sikich LLP report will be left to city officials.

In a separate matter, the sheriff’s office has received a complaint regarding current proceedings within the city alleging additional open meeting violations and procedural issues in city management. That complaint remains under investigation currently and we are not able to comment on that matter until that investigation has been completed.

Questions may be directed to Sheriff Dale J. Schmidt.

Deputy Ott of the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle in the city of Waupun. When the deputy made contact with the driver, he observed indicators of impairment. The deputy observed further suspicious behavior, and he requested assistance from the Waupun Police Department and a K9 Unit.

Deputy Mayer and K9 Cade of the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene. K9 Cade was deployed, and he positively alerted to the odor of illicit drugs coming from the motor vehicle. Deputies conducted a search of the motor vehicle, and they located a significant amount of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia.

In total, three adults from Oshkosh were arrested on the following charges.

Jeromy Mulvey, age 49: Possession with intent to deliver fentanyl (>10-50 grams) as party to a crime (PTAC), possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine (>50 grams) as PTAC, and two counts of bail jumping (felony).

Shawn Lux, age 48: Possession with intent to deliver fentanyl (>10-50 grams) as PTAC, possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine (>50 grams) as PTAC, and bail jumping (felony).

Jane Glunz, age 53: Possession with intent to deliver fentanyl (>10-50 grams) as PTAC, possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine (>50 grams) as PTAC, and operating while under the influence (second offense).

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Waupun Police Department. This incident highlights their commitment to traffic safety and reducing drug trafficking. All persons are innocent until proven guilty in court, and this information is available publicly as part of Wisconsin’s Circuit Court Records.

Questions may be directed to Sheriff Dale J. Schmidt.

Photo from the Dodge County Sheriff's Office.

The "Slinger Community Group" will once again be sponsoring their annual Easter Egg Hunt, at Fireman's Park which is located at 116 Parkway Drive, in Slinger. It will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 30. 

It will take place in the rain, with the bright sunshine or snow.

It is not necessary to sign up. 

The Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt in the City of West Bend is Saturday, March 30 at Regner Park!

The hunt starts at 11 a.m. sharp and is open to all children ages eight and under.

Spring break week continues, but Hartford Union High School is still a busy place. 

Four roof top units are being installed to replace ones that have partially or completely failed. The four roof top units represent a very small fraction of the over 50 units on their building, which is necessary to keep the learning environments comfortable for students and staff each day.

HUHS extends their gratitude to their administration, who ordered these units back in July as they continue to be challenged by supply chain issues.

While others are traveling in search of warm weather during spring break, we know these units will help them keep it warm and sunny at Hartford Union High School.

The theme of the next program presented by the Richfield Historical Society is "How to Attract Pollinators to Your Garden" with guest speaker Carrie Hennessy.

The community program is Thursday, March 28 at the Richfield Fire Hall. 

Pollinators are certainly the unsung heroes of our gardens, fields and farms.

Over 100,000 invertebrates—including bees, butterflies, beetles, moths, wasps, and flies—and more than a thousand mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians take on the job of pollinating plants. This biodiverse group of wildlife buzzes, flutters, and creeps from plant to plant, dining on protein-rich pollen and high-energy nectar. As they move, they transport and deposit pollen, fertilizing plants and allowing those plants to reproduce.

Bees are the most numerous, effective, and important pollinators. They pollinate both our crops and wild plants, providing us with one-third of the food we eat and allowing wild plants to reproduce and produce the berries, fruits, seeds, and other plant foods that form the base of the natural food web.

Carrie Hennessy of Johnson Nursery, in Menomonee Falls will share her expertise on how to attract pollinators to your garden. Ms. Hennessy will discuss easy ways to make your yard friendlier to bees and butterflies to create a successful pollinator habitat. Make room in your garden for pollinators, and plant the right plants. 

As a professional horticulturist and designer for Johnson Nursery’s lead landscape design for residential and softscape projects, Ms. Hennesy has presented a wide range of topics to local garden clubs, libraries, educational institutions and local news stations. In addition, she is a primary contributor to Johnson’s Nursery Knowledgebase, an online repository of articles and videos.

Everyone is welcome to attend the Richfield Historical Society's program. It is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. at the Richfield Fire Hall, 2008 State Road 175, Richfield, WI. 

It's a fun tradition.

Hartford's Annual Easter Egg Hunt is Saturday, March 30 beginning at 8:30 a.m.

The Easter Bunny will be in town to help all of the children find eggs, which will be filled with candy and other prizes.

It will take place at Woodlawn Union Park, located at 1200 Wacker Dr. in the City of Hartford.

Good luck with the hunt! 

Washington County Sheriff’s Office investigators arrested a 35-year-old Village of Newburg man on numerous felony charges relating to child sexual abuse material. Michael Westphal currently remains in custody on a $500,000 cash bail at the Washington County Jail while he faces those charges. The investigation, however, did not stop after the arrest.

The investigation revealed that Westphal was allegedly communicating with a child sex trafficker in the Philippines. The evidence suggested that Westphal was sending that person money in exchange for videos and pictures of a small child being sexually assaulted. Westphal believed that the money he was sending was going to cover the costs of adoption so the trafficker could adopt the victim and make it easier for Westphal to receive further videos of abuse. Additionally, Westphal was planning a trip to the Philippines to meet the trafficker and victim in person.

The lead detective on this case began working with agents from Homeland Security Investigations to identify the trafficker and victim. Over the past eight months, HSI agents have been working closely with authorities from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on this case. That investigation culminated yesterday in the Philippines when a raid was conducted which resulted in the arrest of three human traffickers and the rescuing of six total children ranging from ages two to fifteen including Westphal’s alleged victim. Those suspects will now face their charges in the Philippines.

Washington County Sheriff Martin Schulteis said he was proud of the effort of his agency and all the public safety partners involved in this international effort. “Victims of child sexual exploitation are amongst the most vulnerable among us and often need an advocate on their side to free them from their unspeakable horror. These children had advocates across the globe who came together under the common goal of setting them free while bringing the perpetrators who committed the heinous crimes to justice.” The Washington County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend a special thank you to Homeland Security Investigations, as well as the PNP and the NBI in the Philippines for their efforts in this case.

Pursuant to the directive of the Wisconsin Supreme Court, as found in Supreme Court Rule 20:3.6, Trial Publicity, a charge is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.

Effective April 15, 2024 the Public Service Commission allows utilities to shut off electric to those homes not up to date on their bills.

The City of Hartford reminds anyone who might be in this situation to work with the Finance Department and do not ignore the notices. The City wants to work with every property owner to make sure their power is kept on.

City of Hartford Utility Billing Specialist Holly Wenzel told WTKM about the utility bill. 

"We charge for six services. It includes electric, water, sewer, recycling, fire protection and public benefits. We read the meters at the end of the third week each month. We start processing almost 7,000 utility bills the following last week and then we will mail them the last business day of the month. Customers have a due date, it's always set every 20th of the month." 

Anyone needing to set up a payment plan for past due bills from over the winter should stop by Hartford City Hall and talk with a finance representative to work out any issues on their bills.

Slinger Police Department is once again hosting its Citizen Academy Program this fall, and applications are now being accepted. The Academy will start on September 5 and end on October 10.

This program is designed for adults of all ages. 

Applicants do not need to reside in the Village of Slinger limits.

Slinger police Chief Dean Schmidt told WTKM News all about it. 

"We will give them a first-hand look at what the officers do on a daily basis and some perspective of the types of areas that our department cover."

The Slinger Police Citizen Academy meets once a week, on Thursday nights, for six weeks to discuss various law enforcement topics and allow participants a hands-on experience.

Those who complete the Citizen Academy may also join an officer on an optional ride along.

Applications for the Citizen Academy may be picked up at Slinger Police Department, or found on the Village of Slinger website.

The City of Hartford Utility Director Brian Rhodes advocated on behalf of Hartford, Hartford Electric and its customers at the American Public Power Association’s 2024 Legislative Rally. The annual event was held in Washington D.C. as Rhodes met personally with Wisconsin Senators Tammy Baldwin (D) and Ron Johnson (R). He also met with staff from the offices of Reps. Scott Fitzgerald and Derrick Van Orden.

“Spending time talking with lawmakers provides a great opportunity to discuss the policies that impact our community,” Rhodes told WTKM News. “Sitting down to discuss the topics that matter, like maintaining a safe, reliable and affordable power supply, was beneficial for both us and our legislators.”

Rhodes spoke during the meetings about the importance of ensuring utilities receive the help they need during a supply chain crisis and that more onerous policies are not passed to worsen the problem. They also discussed the need for streamlined federal permitting and siting rules to bolster infrastructure and maintain electric reliability, reducing the cost of investments in that infrastructure, a more secure energy grid, and providing responsible and reliable energy through a mix of sources — including natural gas.

“By meeting with our legislators, we can help ensure national policymakers keep public power customers in mind when they’re making proposals,” said Joseph Owen, director of government affairs for WPPI Energy. “Their choices have consequences in our local communities, so it is important to present our view. We are fortunate to have a congressional delegation that hears the issues from communities with locally owned, not-for-profit utilities and works to help however they can.”

Member-owned, not-for-profit WPPI Energy serves Hartford Electric and 50 other locally owned electric utilities. Together, WPPI members have built a diverse, competitive and responsible power supply. They share modern technologies and forward-thinking services, and they speak with a unified voice for effective energy policy advocacy.

The Edwin L. Jones American Legion Post 91 recently donated $1,500 to the Oconomowoc Food Pantry.

The Oconomowoc Food Pantry serves around 60 families each week. They do not receive any government subsidies of any kind, and rely completely on donations.

The Oconomowoc Food Pantry is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 to 2:30 and 6:30 to 7:30. They are also open on Saturdays from 9:30 to 10:30.

The Wisconsin American Legion is the state’s largest veterans service organization with over 50,000 members and 500 posts in communities across Wisconsin serving troops, veterans and youth since 1919. 

Featured in the photo, from left to right: Dave Corrie 1st vice, Jerry Wendt Commander of Post 91, Gary Feldschneider of the Food Pantry, Dale Saeger Adjutant of Post 91.

Throughout the year, the Washington County Health and Human Services Department encourages all individuals and organizations to play a role in making Washington County a safe place for children and families.

Research shows that positive childhood experiences in nurturing environments provide a strong foundation for children’s physical and mental health, learning and social skills. We know children do well when their parents do well. The foundation of this effort is the dedication of local agencies that ensure caregivers have the knowledge, skills and resources they need to protect children from the risk of child abuse and neglect.

“Across our community, there are parents and caregivers who are struggling with balancing the stress of daily life alongside caring for a child. Whether it is working multiple jobs trying to make ends meet or struggling with substance use or mental health needs --balancing these pressures with parenting can at times be very difficult, “says Coral Kline, Children and Families Division Manager with the Human Services Department. “While there is no excuse for abuse or neglect, we must understand what underlying issues can cause it to occur if we, as a community, wish to prevent it and help families safely stay together.”

Washington County is posting resources on the Washington County Facebook page for families to stay connected and ease stressors. Washington County recently played host to the Guardians of the Children--Hog City Chapter for their annual Pinwheel ceremony to observe Family Strengthening Month. Guardians of the Children is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization comprised of motorcycle enthusiasts. Their vision is to improve the quality of life in the community by educating the public and making them aware of the steps to take in order to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to the reality of child abuse.

It's an important role that communities play in protecting children and strengthening families,” Kline said. “Each family is unique, but all parents and caregivers need support sometimes. We can help by ensuring all children have positive experiences and families have the resources when they need them.”

The Washington County Support Line is 262-365-6565 and is answered 24/7/365, and provides free, confidential referrals to community resources. Community members can dial 2-1-1 to access family, health, and social service resources. They can also dial toll-free 1-866-211-3380, search online at impactinc.org or chat with a representative by texting their zip code to 898-211.

To report suspected child abuse or neglect call 262-335-4888. ###

The Hartford Fire and Rescue Department responded to a house fire in the 600 Block of McKinely Ave. in the City of Hartford. 

It happened on Sunday, March 24 around 3:20 p.m.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The homeowners arrived home, discovered the fire and called 911. No one was injured, but the house and all of its contents suffered major damage.

Preliminary damage estimates are $150,000. The American Red Cross was notified to assist the homeowners.

Hartford Police, Water and Electric along with area fire departments from Slinger, St. Lawrence, Richfield and Jackson all assisted at the scene.   
 

Any qualified elector who is unable or unwilling to appear at the polling place on Election Day may submit a request to vote an absentee ballot to their municipal clerk. A qualified elector is any U.S. citizen, who will be 18 years of age or older on Election Day, has resided in the ward or municipality where they wish to vote for at least 28 consecutive days before the election. The elector must also be registered to vote to receive an absentee ballot. Proof of identification must be provided before an absentee ballot may be issued.

Making application to receive an absentee ballot by mail:

Contact your municipal clerk and request that an application for an absentee ballot be sent to you for the primary or election or both. You may make written application to your municipal clerk for an absentee ballot in person, by mail, by fax, by email or at MyVote.wi.gov. Your written request, must include 1) your voting address within the municipality where you wish to vote, 2) the address where the absentee ballot should be sent, if different from the address above 3) your signature, 4) a copy of your photo identification.

The deadline for making application to receive an absentee ballot by mail is: 5 pm on the fifth day before the election, March 28, 2024.

Voters who are indefinitely confined due to age, illness, infirmity, or disability may not be required to provide photo ID. If this applies to you, contact the municipal clerk regarding deadlines for requesting and submitting an absentee ballot.

Special absentee voting application provisions apply to electors who are indefinitely confined, in the military, hospitalized, or serving as a sequestered juror. If this applies to you, contact the municipal clerk regarding deadlines for requesting and submitting an absentee ballot.

Voting an absentee ballot in person

You may also request and vote an absentee ballot in the clerk's office or other specified location during the days and hours specified for casting an absentee ballot in person.

Shanna Kreilkamp 262-673-8201

109 N Main Street, Hartford, WI 53027

Monday – Friday, 7:45 am to 4:15 pm

The first day to vote an absentee ballot in the clerk’s office is March 19, 2024, 7:45 am:

The last day to vote an absentee ballot in the clerk's office is March 29, 2024, 4:15 pm:

No in-person absentee voting may occur on the day before the election. The municipal clerk will deliver voted ballots returned on or before Election Day to the proper polling place or counting location before the polls close on April 2, 2024. Any ballots received after the polls close will not be counted.

25 years ago today, March 8, 1999 Detective Drummy started with the Village of Pewaukee Police Department as a patrol officer. During his career, he has served as a Field Training Officer on the Waukesha County METRO Drug Force unit, as an operator on the department's SWAT team and on the Lake Country Major Investigations Unit.

Drummy was promoted to Detective in 2009 and has proven to be one of the best.

Detective Drummy was recently recognized at the awards ceremony for the Pewaukee Police for his service of a quarter-century in Pewaukee.

Congratulations to Detective Drummy on this impressive milestone.

Photo by the Village of Pewaukee Police Department. 

A 22-year-old Watertown woman, who was identified as Katie L. Webber, died on the scene and 60-year-old Patrick S. Hutton, of Pardeeville, received non-life-threatening injuries in a traffic crash on State Highway 16/60 near O’Connor Road in the town of Elba. This intersection is about one mile east of the city of Columbus.

It hapened at 7:48 a.m. on Wednesday, March 20. The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office received 911 calls of a two-vehicle crash. The initial investigation showed the woman’s vehicle was westbound on State Highway 16/60, crossed the center line, and collided head-on with the man’s eastbound vehicle. Katie Webber was extricated from the vehicle and pronounced deceased on the scene. The man, Patrick Hutton was taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. The drivers were the only occupants of each vehicle.

State Highway 16/60 was fully closed between Baden Street and County Highway TT for emergency personnel and the crash investigation.

The crash is under investigation by the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office and our Crash Investigation Team. Also responding to the crash were the Columbus Police Department, Columbus Fire Department, Fall River Fire Department, Lifestar Paramedics, and Flight For Life.

Questions may be directed to Sheriff Dale J. Schmidt

The snow interrupted spring on Friday, March 22.

The theme throughout the winter season for area snow plow drivers is clear it out. It’s the job, according to Washington County’s Scott Schmidt, of the Highway Department.

"Yes, that's what we do...pushing hard to keep the roads as clean as possible."

Weatherology Meteologist Paul Trambley told WTKM News that the day started with the expectation of three to five inches of snow.

"The system brought steady snowfall throughout the morning. It's expected to slow down and taper off this afternoon. General snow totals will be around three to five inches, with a few spots getting a bit more. We are tracking a system, which is expected to come into the area this Sunday...starting with snow and turning to rain by this Monday."

Snow plow drivers worked hard and started early this morning. City of Hartford Public Works Director Darryl Kranz told WTKM News how the day begins with an early morning snow storm.

'We are out there, the second the police department calls. They will call me at night, and tell me about the weather. I'm up at that point, and we will see where we are at and I'll get guys in. We try hitting it very early. It goes by how much snow and road temperature."

WTKM News appreciates our snow plow drivers, especially during an early morning snow storm!

The Germantown Dispatch Center received a 911 call regarding smoke coming from a residential structure on Pleasant View Drive, in Germantown. The Germantown Fire Department and Germantown Police Department were notified.

It happened Thursday afternoon, March 21 at 3:24 p.m.

Snow returns to the area, and is expected to begin Thursday night, March 21.

Weatherology Chief Meteorologist Paul Trambley told WTKM News about the amount of snow which is expected.

"It's expected tonight, and will continue into the day on Friday (March 22). A potential for a higher amount of snow is expected. Snowfall totals are expected around four to six inches, and maybe upwards of around eight inches in some spots locally. Another system could be a factor, with snowfall, at the beginning of next week as well."

This Friday, March 22 look for cloudy skies and a high of 35. This snow system is expected to wrap up by early afternoon.

Sunshine returns for this Saturday. 

A 22-year-old Watertown woman died on the scene, and a 60-year-old Pardeeville man received non-life-threatening injuries in a traffic crash on State Highway 16/60 near O’Connor Road, in the town of Elba. This intersection is about one mile east of the city of Columbus.

At approximately 7:48 a.m. on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office received 911 calls of a two-vehicle crash. The initial investigation showed the woman’s vehicle was westbound on State Highway 16/60, crossed the center line, and collided head-on with the man’s eastbound vehicle. The woman was extricated from the vehicle and pronounced deceased on scene. The man was taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. The drivers were the only occupants of each vehicle.

State Highway 16/60 was fully closed between Baden Street and County Highway TT for emergency personnel and the crash investigation.

The crash is under investigation by the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office and our Crash Investigation Team. Also responding to the crash were the Columbus Police Department, Columbus Fire Department, Fall River Fire Department, Lifestar Paramedics, and Flight For Life.

Questions may be directed to Sheriff Dale J. Schmidt.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is looking for community assistance in identifying potential suspects in a vandalism incident that occurred in the early morning hours on March 12, 2024, at around 1:15 a.m.

It occurred on Lakeview Avenue in the Village of Richfield.

The suspects vandalized the victim's truck which was parked in the driveway of the residence, causing significant damage. It is believed that the suspects may be teenage females from the area.

If anyone has information, the Washington County Sheriff's Office would greatly appreciate if you would contact Deputy Droese, at (262)335-4411 or email your information at bryan.droese@washcowisco.gov. 

A siren in Kewaskum will be donated to the Kewaskum Historical Society next month.

On January 4, 1926, the Kewaskum Village Board voted to purchase a type "B" siren to replace the fire bell atop the old village hall and firehouse at 203 Main Street, currently Smith and Hatch Insurance. The siren was purchased from the Federal Electric Company of Chicago.

This new type of fire alarm gives a peculiar penetrating tone—a fire call that is instantly recognized. Its very sound is a warning because it's so different from all ordinary factory whistles, fire bells, or other alarms, according to a Kewaskum Statesman article in 1926.

Serving as a signal to alert the village's firemen, the siren was equipped with a remote control. It could be activated off-site at the Kewaskum telephone office at 230 Main Street, and an additional switch was also placed in the firehouse. The siren boasts an alarm control to provide the proper tone, graduating up and down the scale rather than one steady tone. It has a 5 H.P. motor, 3000 to 3500 R.P.M., and the rotors are 15 inches in diameter. The siren has two revolving fans in the sounding mechanism to double the volume of the siren. It weighs about 325 pounds and was mounted on the roof of the village hall.

In November 1950, the village moved its administrative offices, the library, and the police and fire departments to the newly constructed municipal building at 204 First Street. The siren was repaired and painted before being placed on top of the building on November 21, 1950. The village's phone system was redone in 1967, with the fire department having 11 phones with a button to activate the siren. The department purchased Motorola pagers for some of its members in 1970. Kewaskum Fire Chief Mark Groeschel stated that after they started to carry pagers, the department eventually stopped blowing the siren to signal firefighters. Retired department member David Zehren recalled that, as late as 1971, they were still using the siren to signal a fire. When St. Michael Church was struck by lightning on January 4, 1971, David did not hear the siren's call for help.

It is unclear when the practice of blowing the siren at noon began, but many factory towns in Wisconsin used the whistle to signal the noon lunch break. Some village residents remember the noon whistle sounding during their childhood in the 1940s and 1950s, which would have overlapped the timeframe the siren was used for signaling firemen. The siren continued to be sounded for a daily test and weather emergencies after the fire department abandoned the siren as a fire warning.

Former Police Chief Richard Knoebel recalled that sometime in the 1980s, the village updated their emergency warning system by adding a larger siren at the firehouse. After purchasing the new siren, the 1926 Federal Electric B siren on top of the current municipal building was eventually retired. The old siren still sits on the roof of the municipal building and was auctioned off years ago during a roofing project. The winning bidder never came to pick up the siren, so it has remained in the village’s possession.

Over the years, additional sirens were installed on Knights Ave., Reigle Drive, and Highway H West to meet the needs of the village as the boundaries continued to expand. Police Chief Tom Bishop stated that the current system of four sirens is controlled online. If the weather service issues an emergency alert for an area inside a predetermined boundary, the siren will sound automatically. The siren can also be activated manually online.

Last Call

Before the existing municipal building is razed in April, the village recently made plans to sound the 1926 Federal B siren for the final time on Saturday, March 23, 2024. It will be activated at noon with the "noon whistle" and will continue to sound just a little longer than the other modern sirens. The village and the Kewaskum Historical Society invite residents to the village hall to witness the event.

The siren will be removed next month and donated to the Kewaskum Historical Society. The organization will have the siren restored and later displayed near the museum at 1202 Parkview Drive.

A Huber walk away inmate in Dodge County turned herself in to the Dodge County Jail.

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office reported the return of Michelle Hawkins. She left the Dodge County Jail around 12:30 yesterday afternoon for an approved job interview.

She is an inmate with court ordered Huber privileges, which allow certain inmates to leave the facility for work and medical appointments.

Goodwill Industries of Southeast Wisconsin opened its first store and donation center in the City of Hartford this year, at 1201 Bell Ave.

Goodwill Store and Donation Centers offer a wide range of donated items stocked daily at affordable prices, offering shoppers a sustainable way to give items a second life while giving back to their local communities.

While most people are familiar with Goodwill for its retail locations, the nonprofit also is a workforce development organization that provides job training, employment, and supportive services for people in the community with disabilities or disadvantages who seek greater independence.

In fact, Goodwill is the leading workforce provider in North America, placing someone in a new job every minute of every business day. The organization has more than a 120-year track record of providing services to people going through transition, whether due to military service, lack of education or work experience, mental or physical challenges, or the impact of the criminal justice system.

“Goodwill has a longstanding presence in the greater metropolitan Milwaukee area, offering retail operations and community-based support programs and services that help people navigate employment challenges, prepare for the workplace, and increase access to jobs,” said Dan Michael, Vice President, Retail Stores and Donation Centers at Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin and Metropolitan Chicago. “Opening a second Goodwill Store & Donation Center in Washington County increases our ability to reach community members in the northwestern part of the greater metropolitan Milwaukee area with vital services and an affordable shopping option.”

In 2022, the Goodwill Cares Community Assistance program also helped Washington County community members in need of emergency assistance obtain much needed clothing and household items from Goodwill Store & Donation Centers.

“Goodwill is committed to the Hartford community, and we are proud to contribute to the growth of the area’s retail business sector, economy, and revitalization of the Hartford Plaza,” said Michael. “Goodwill has made an investment in our new store and donation center location through a 12-year lease, and we are adding 46 new jobs in the community. We look forward to supporting Hartford’s growing population through meaningful work and essential job readiness training, placement, and support services.”

Every purchase and donation at Goodwill helps support people in building job skills and finding employment in the local community.

The Hartford Goodwill Store and Donation Center is open for shopping and donating Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can reach them at 262-832-3220.

The Washington County Anti-Trafficking Advocates and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office will host a free event at the First United Methodist Church, on Monroe Avenue in Hartford on Monday, March 25.

This community wide event will focus on the role of social media in human trafficking.

Co-founder of the Anti-Trafficking Advocates Wendy Smith.

"This is coming from what I have learned from law enforcement, from the services that serve people that are being exploited. If a child has a device that is connected to the internet, whether it's gaming, or wherever there is a chat platform...snapchat or texting and they have the device in their hand, it's a potential danger."                                                

It’s a chance to learn about false profiles, and about the tools to keep kids safe.

Free educational resources will be available.

They will discuss how social media can serve as an outlet in order to exploit kids.

A special recognition was held recently in West Bend.

Police and Fire Chairperson Nancie Heaps was recognized at a West Bend Common Council meeting this month, for her 26 years of service on the Police and Fire Commission.

West Bend Police Chief Tim Dehring presented a Meritorious Service Award to Nancie Heaps during the meeting.

Nancie Heaps, in which time, provided guidance and civilian oversight in the hiring of three police chiefs, 92 police officers and approved 52 police department promotions.

West Bend officials extended a big thank you to Nancie for her service to the West Bend Police Department and the West Bend community.

Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann hosted his annual Agricultural Listening Session recently, where attendees heard overviews of Washington County initiatives related to the agricultural community.

Facilitator-led table discussions brought up issues concerning the farm community including hiring challenges, weed removal processes, roads needing to support heavy farming equipment, cost of tech improvements, and educating the community on ag issues.

The event facilitators included Rob Johnson - CEO Kettle Moraine YMCA, Stacy Holland – CEO Washington County Fair Park, Jamie Ludovic - Chief Community Development Officer, Mike Foti – Legislative Clerk, and Aaron Daul – Chief Administrative Officer.

There is more information regarding a fatal accident from Friday night, March 15.

It happened around 9:22 p.m. according to the Jefferson County Sheriff. 

A vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed in Watertown, when it failed to negotiate a curve and left the roadway. The vehicle rolled several times and the driver was ejected.

The driver was the only one in the vehicle, and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Speed is a contributing factor in the crash.

The incident is under investigation.  

A suspect, wanted in the alleged case which involved property damage in Fox Lake, has been identified, located and taken into custody.

The Dodge County Sheriff's Office would like to thank the public for their tips in solving this case.

The Dodge County Sheriff's Office requested assistance from the public in identifying the suspect in a criminal damage to property case, on the 200 block of Weed St. in the city of Fox Lake.

A report from a homeowner resulted in information regarding a male suspect attempting to gain entry into a house and then damaging a vehicle parked in the driveway before leaving on foot.

The attached photo was released by the Dodge County Sheriff's Office. 

Dave Troeller, the city’s Parking Enforcement Aide, retired after 17 years of service to the city.

Dave worked to check parking in the downtown area and the public parking lots surrounding the downtown. Dave was liked by all and had a pleasant and easy going demeanor.

Dave Troeller lives in Slinger.

The City of Hartford extends a big  thank you to Dave for his service and wish him well in his retirement.

A special event is planned for Saturday, March 23 at 11 a.m. at the  Washington County Public Agency Center, on the front lawn on the corner of 33 and Indiana.

You can join the Annual Pinwheel Event to honor Child Abuse Prevention and Family Strengthening Month.

Each year, Washington County Children and Families partners with Guardians of the Children, Hawg City Chapter to bring awareness to child abuse and neglect in our community.

Guardians of the Children- Hawg City Chapter is a non profit, biker organization dedicated to protecting the victims of child abuse. They partner with child advocacy agencies, victim assistance groups, and others to raise awareness of the prevalence of child abuse.

The Guardians of the Children will all be riding their motorcycles, and will be arriving together at the Washington County Public Agency Center. They will then hold a ceremony which consists of placing blue pinwheels – the national symbol for child abuse awareness- in a pinwheel garden outside of the PAC. Each pinwheel represents a victim of child abuse or neglect in 2023.

After the ceremony, the Guardians of the Children’s members will be available to interact with community members.

Go to hawgcitygoc.com for more information.

The Erin St. Patrick’s Day Parade is Sunday, March 17.

35 entries are signed up to participate in Sunday’s annual event.

Erin St. Patrick’s Day Parade Chairman Derek Wilcox told WTKM that’s important to be safe.  

"We are expecting a very large crowd. Make sure you come early, the parade starts at 11:00 but the road closes at 10 a.m. You can get a good spot, and you'll be set. You will want to park along the roadway. You can even watch it from your vehicle, if you'd like. It's important for all of those attending, to be mindful of the parade floats. Please stay off of the roadway and do not approach any of the floats. We just want to make sure it's a fun day and a safe day." 

It’s the 44^th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Erin.

The parade will follow a route that hasn’t been used in a while, starting at the intersection of Highway K and Shamrock Lane and running north, ending at the intersection of Hwy 167. Staging of the floats will be on Shamrock Lane.   

The Town of Erin St. Patrick’s Day parade will be held on Sunday, March 17. The parade will begin at 11:00 a.m. Starting at 10:00 a.m. no vehicle traffic will be allowed on the parade route. Only pedestrian traffic going to the parade will be allowed to pass barricades on CTH K. Pending vehicular and pedestrian traffic on the parade route, the 10:00 AM time may be adjusted. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office in cooperation with the Town of Erin, has taken steps to ensure that the parade route and surrounding highways will be as safe as possible for motorists and pedestrians.

The practice of groups establishing large party areas along the highway used for the parade route have caused traffic and pedestrian hazards and significant delays in reopening the highway following the parade. The Town of Erin has received a permit from the Washington County Highway Department to hold the parade on a closed portion of CTH K between Shamrock Lane and Hwy. 167, however that permit does not include closing the highway for unrestricted partying.

The presence of oversize vehicles, recreational vehicles, campers, trailers, and the temporary structures associated with these groups contribute to the hazards along the highway. These hazards significantly delay the clearing of the parade route and encourage excessive drinking both before and after the parade. To address these concerns and to ensure the safety of everyone wishing to attend the parade, the following steps have been taken to minimize these hazards:

Only passenger vehicles and trucks not exceeding one ton in capacity will be allowed to park along the parade route. Vehicles which are prohibited from parking on the parade route include recreational vehicles, towed or pickup campers, motor homes, buses, oversize vehicles and/or trailers of any kind.

No temporary structures or shelters will be permitted on the parade route. This includes pole tents, frame tents, lean-to’s, awnings, canopies or similar structures regardless of size.

Use of private property along the parade route is at the discretion of the property owners. Vehicles will be permitted to enter the parade route for the purposes of accessing private property or discharging passengers, however they will not be permitted to remain parked along the route. Once the parade route is deemed full all vehicular traffic will be restricted on the parade route. Unauthorized persons, vehicles, and/or structures which are located on private property without the permission of the property owner constitutes trespassing. Violators will be cited. All other highways adjacent to the parade route are open highways and all applicable laws will apply.

In addition to the above steps the Sheriff’s Office will be deploying extra Deputies on St. Patrick’s Day dedicated to enforcing traffic laws to ensure vehicular safety, including detecting and arresting drivers for OWI violations.

The Sheriff’s Office and the Town of Erin are taking these steps to ensure that the parade is an enjoyable and safe event for everyone.

City of Hartford officials have suspended the winter parking regulations. 

The weather outlook through the remainder of March looks to be mild. The City of Hartford is suspending winter parking regulations for the remainder of the season. 

Winter parking rules were issued by the Hartford Police Department earlier in the winter season, regarding the parking permits.

The municipal code now allows for the purchase of winter parking permits at the Hartford Police Department, by those vehicle owners who don’t have enough parking for vehicles in their garage or driveway. The cost of each new permit is $120.00 for the season and can be applied for and purchased from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the Hartford Police Department. The new permit allows parking on the street, December 1 to March 31, from 3 am to 6 am, on alternating sides of the street. The permitted vehicle shall be parked on the even numbered side of the street on those nights which at 3 am bear an even calendar date and on the odd numbered side of the street on those nights which at 3 am bear an odd calendar date. Permits may be transferred by the permit holder from one vehicle to another within the same household. This permit does not allow street parking during a declared snow emergency.

Also keep in mind, you cannot park vehicles in your yard (on the grass area) over a sidewalk, or on the area between the road and your sidewalk (apron of the driveway) to avoid parking on the roadway any time of the year. You may receive a citation for doing so.

The permit issued is for one season and shall be hung from the rearview mirror of the vehicle unless such placement is not possible due to the design of the vehicle. The permit shall be placed in the vehicle so that it is visible to people outside of the vehicle.

In addition to the new permits, the city may designate municipally owned parking lots which may be used as overnight winter parking. Vehicles may be parked in designated lots without permits for a period not to exceed 24 hours and in compliance with all other requirements of the Municipal Code. Designating a lot for overnight parking shall not supersede other parking restrictions imposed on the designated lot. A map of these designated lots, along with the winter parking ordinance is posted on the City of Hartford website. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to see the winter parking information.

The Richfield Historical Society's Maple Syrup Family Day will be held Saturday March 23, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Richfield Historical Park. 

Admission is free.

Spring brings a whirlwind of activity to the Richfield Historical Park's Sugar Shack, where the sap collected from maple trees in the park is cooked into syrup. Syrup-making demonstrations will be held throughout the day, with discussions of the history of maple sap products. Syrup will also be available for sale, while supplies last.

This year’s event will feature a maple syrup contest. Their celebrity judges include Alice in Dairyland Ashley Hagenow and Richfield Village President John Jeffords. The tasting portion of the contest will start at 9:00 a.m. and take place in the Granary Building, which is adjacent to the Sugar Shack.

Their famous pancake and sausage breakfast with real maple syrup will be served from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Coffee, hot chocolate and hot dogs will be served from 9:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. Their wonderful maple cotton candy will also be available throughout the day.

All the park’s historical buildings, including the mill, will be open and available for free tours.

Funds raised at the Maple Syrup Family Day support the society's educational programs and maintenance of the Richfield Historical Park.

The park is located at 1896 Hwy. 164, in Richfield around a half mile north of Hwy. 167.

The Dodge County Sheriff has changed the sheriff’s office policy to be more aggressive in cracking down on drivers who do not have a valid driver’s license. In Wisconsin, they have seen more and more drivers who continue to drive time after time even after they have been caught over and over again. This is often caused by how our system processes the Operating without a Valid Driver’s License (OWL) violation. In Wisconsin, if you commit a violation of OWL, it is simply an ordinance violation with only a forfeiture assessed. However, if you commit a second or subsequent offense within three years, it becomes a traffic crime with penalties that can include jail time.

Unfortunately, once the first violation is processed through the courts, the driving status is changed from “No Valid License Issued” to “No License Issued Status=Suspended”. As a result, many law enforcement officers and agencies are issuing subsequent citations for Operating while Suspended (OWS) which never escalates to becoming a crime. As a result, some individuals continue to violate the law, continue to receive citations, fail to pay those citations, and seldom ever strive to obtain their license to operate legally after completing the proper training, education, and testing to operate safely on our highways.

Effective immediately, the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office will no longer be issuing citations for OWS in these cases, but we will be issuing the OWL citation and will be asking the District Attorney’s Office to prosecute the multiple offense crimes in hopes of gaining compliance.

Just recently we have had two individuals who are chronic offenders as examples of this very issue. The first person is Damien Hose, age 21 of rural Beaver Dam, who was arrested by the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office for his 3rd OWL (2nd within 3 years). He also has 14 prior OWS violations and numerous incidents of failure to pay forfeiture. He was booked into the jail on this traffic crime.

The second offender is Trayvin Yarrington, age 20 of Columbus, who was issued a citation for his 3rd OWL (1st within 3 years). He also had 24 prior OWS violations and numerous incidents of failure to pay forfeiture.

All persons are innocent until proven guilty in court and all this information is available publicly as part of Wisconsin’s Circuit Court Records.

Dodge County Citizens make complaints to law enforcement every day regarding drivers who are operating a vehicle outside of the law and it is our job to take action to bring these violators back into compliance with the law. All citizens over the age of 16 have the opportunity to pursue a driver’s license legally and it is not safe or fair to law-abiding citizens that others choose to circumvent and blatantly show disrespect for the laws that have been put in place by our legislative processes. The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office will hold these individuals accountable whenever possible, and all criminal traffic will result in the driver being arrested and booked into the Dodge County Jail for processing.

Attached to this press release are photos of Damien Hose and Trayvin Yarrington. If you see these individuals or others who are driving without a valid license driving in Dodge County, please report it to law enforcement. You can do so by calling our non-emergency number 920-386-3726 or by submitting an incident report on our Dodge County Sheriff’s Office App which you can download on your Google or Apple Stores.

Questions may be directed to Sheriff Dale J. Schmidt

The Jackson Police Department continues to have a strong presence at area schools.

Jackson Police Chief Ryan Vossekuil told WTKM News that it's a big part of their weekly operations.

"We're there every day in the morning, to assist with school traffic by slowing people down and helping people cross the street as well as at the end of the school day. We also wanted more of a safety presence, so our officers stop in every day and walk through. It's not just Jackson Elementary, but Living Word High School is in the Village of Jackson now and Morning Star Lutheran School. We have great relationships with all three schools."

Another example occurred recently with a drill at Jackson Elementary School.

The Jackson Police, and the Jackson Fire Department conducted a mock medical call with emergency vehicles and medical equipment, which simulated an emergency response.

This is a required training exercise to assist the school with their Project ADAM accreditation procedure. The staff and students were aware of the drill.

If you have any questions, you can contact the police department directly at (262) 677-4949.

Project ADAM is a nationwide initiative that has saved the lives of more than 200 children, adolescents and adults. Today, there are 38 Project ADAM affiliated sites in 29 states.

Hartford Common Council met Tuesday night, March 12 at the City Hall Council Chambers, in downtown Hartford.

The Unanimous Consent Agenda included a recommendation to approve the hiring of MSA Professional Services for assistance in development of the City of Hartford Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan at a fee not to exceed $19,145.00. It was approved by the Hartford Common Council.

Standing Committee Reports included discussion and consideration of approving a cigarette, tobacco and electronic vaping device retail license for RRR Liquor, Inc. and Naturally Inspired CBD LLC. Both motions were unanimously approved by council members.

A Resolution was presented, which included an engineering contract with Stantec Professional Services, of Mequon for planning and the concept design for the Rubicon River retaining wall and culvert repairs. Hartford City Engineer John Griffin described the current condition.

"This is the retaining wall, right outside of the council chambers here and it's failing. The one just east of Main Street that's leaning and just about to fall into the river. We are potentially looking to line the stone arch to give it another 70 to 100 years. We are looking at one consultant to do all three, instead of breaking it up to do three projects...we've combined them."

Hartford Common Council unanimously approved the Resolution No. 3669.

Hartford Common Council meetings are typically held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Hartford City Hall Council Chambers.     

Officer Ramirez of the Oconomowoc Police Department received the 2023 Wisconsin Top-10 Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) of the Year award at the Wisconsin Traffic Safety Officer’s Association Conference.

The award is presented to the top ten officers in the state based on the number of drug influence evaluations they conduct per year.

Congratulations on your award Officer Ramirez and thank you for your commitment to keeping our community safe!

The City of Watertown announced the appointment of Tanya Reynen as the new Fire Chief. With an impressive career dedicated to enhancing community safety and professional development within the fire service, Reynen brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role.

Reynen’s career in public service spans nearly two decades, marked by significant contributions and achievements. Most recently, she served as the Deputy Chief of Training Center at Lake Country Fire Rescue, where she spearheaded innovative initiatives and fostered a culture of excellence.

Prior to her tenure at Lake Country Fire Rescue, Reynen served in various capacities including as a Paid on Call Firefighter/Paramedic at Western Lakes Fire District, an Adjunct Fire/EMS Instructor at Waukesha County Technical College, and as a Firefighter/Paramedic at Watertown Fire Department and Town of Brookfield Fire Department. Reynen says, “I began my full-time career in Watertown and am excited about returning to serve the department and community. What I look forward to most in this position is empowering the staff to bring their best selves to work serving the community first and to build both internal and external relationships that improve our community's resiliency.” Reynen holds a bachelor’s degree in Fire Emergency Response Management from UW Oshkosh and an associate degree in Fire Science from Waukesha County Technical College. She is also a Nationally Registered EMT-Paramedic, has completed the Executive Fire Officer program from the National Fire Academy, and holds numerous certifications in fire and EMS instruction and management. Police and Fire Commission Chair Brad Kuenzi said, “We are thrilled to hire Tanya knowing the passion that she has for leading and teaching. The Watertown Fire Department is fortunate to be able to attract a talented individual like her. Tanya will be a conduit for the department and continue to make the Watertown Fire Department a destination department.” Her commitment to professional development is reflected in her participation in speaking events and memberships in esteemed associations such as the Wisconsin EMS Association and the Wisconsin State Fire Chiefs Association. “On behalf of our community I welcome Chief Reynen to Watertown, and I look forward to her leadership in enhancing public safety and community resilience,” Mayor Emily McFarland said. “I am proud of our Fire Department and the service they provide our residents and the surrounding area, and I’m looking forward to Chief Reynen continuing to lead that excellence.”

Chief Reynen will take command of the department in April of 2024. 

There is more information regarding an accident which occurred on March 5, at approximately 4:11 p.m. Dodge County Deputies responded to a two-vehicle injury crash on US Hwy 151 / County Hwy DE in the Town of Beaver Dam. 

Initial investigation shows a 2018 Ford Escape was traveling southbound on U.S. Hwy 151 and a 2001 Buick Park Avenue was traveling eastbound on County Hwy DE. The Buick had attempted to cross over US Hwy 151 and was struck by the 2018 Ford Escape. The driver of the Buick, identified as Raymond Wagner, 76 years old, of Fall River, Wisconsin sustained what is believed to be life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Ford, identified as an 18-year-old man from Kewaskum, Kolton Hauch, sustained non-life threatening injuries. Beaver Dam Paramedics transported the 76-year-old man to Marshfield Medical Center in Beaver Dam. UW Med Flight then flew him to UW Hospital in Madison for treatment. Beaver Dam Paramedics transported the 18-year-old man to Marshfield Medical Center in Beaver Dam.

This crash remains under investigation by the crash investigation team.

Assisting at the scene was Beaver Dam Police Department, Beaver Dam Police Auxiliary, Beaver Dam Fire/EMS, Dodge County Emergency Response Team, and UW Med Flight.

Questions may be directed to Sheriff Dale J. Schmidt.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, The Wall That Heals is coming to Hartland, May 30 - June 2. It will be located at Nixon Park. 

The Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington D.C., will be visiting Hartland this year through its official traveling exhibit called The Wall That Heals.

Hartland has been selected as one of only 33 host sites for the official traveling memorial. Over 50% of people living today were not even born when the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was dedicated in 1982, so The Wall That Heals provides a unique opportunity for the community to connect with the history of the Vietnam War and honor our service personnel who gave their all for this country.

Since its unveiling on Veterans Day 1996, The Wall That Heals, a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., has visited nearly 700 communities across the United States, bringing the memorial’s healing legacy to millions. This traveling exhibit, featuring a replica Wall and a mobile Education Center, enables veterans and their families to experience the memorial’s comfort and peace within their own communities, fostering the healing process for many who have struggled to confront their memories.

The Wall That Heals exhibit was on the road for nearly 18,000 miles and visited 32 communities across the country during its 2023 season. The memorial was escorted by nearly 3,000 vehicles into those communities, spreading The Wall’s healing legacy to more than 222,000 visitors. Guided tours of the exhibit were provided to more than 21,000 visitors.

The Wall That Heals will be open 24 hours a day beginning May 30, until their closing ceremony Sunday, June 2 at 2:00 p.m. This event is free and open to all.

Street Sweeping… not something you normally see in the month February.

Crews were out, sweeping up around the City of Hartford due to the unseasonably warm weather. Street sweeping crews started street sweeping, and every year it makes a difference with the appearance of city streets. 

Street sweeping is normally done in the months of March and April, but thanks to this string of near record temperatures they were able to get out and start the process early.

Hartford City officials continue to be pleased with the results.  

Ingmar Adir Chew Moran, a 52-year-old former Kewaskum resident who had fled to Mexico in 2020 to avoid prosecution on serious sexual assault of a child charges is now in custody in the Washington County Jail. He appeared in front of Washington County Circuit Court Judge Hetzel Friday morning, March 8 on the outstanding warrant and was given a one-million-dollar cash bond. He faces 140 years of confinement on charges of Repeated Sexual Assault of a Child and Sexual Assault of a Child Under 16 years of age. Further charges are anticipated in the future involving a second victim.

On December 18, 2020 the Village of Kewaskum Police Department requested assistance from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office with the sexual assault investigation that they had been working on. Hours later, investigators conducted a search warrant at Chew’s Timblin Drive apartment. It was quickly learned that Chew had fled to Mexico earlier in the day.

Over the next three years, Washington County Sheriff’s investigators have worked closely with the FBI, US Department of Justice International Affairs Criminal Division, Washington County District Attorney’s Office, Mexican Authorities, and many more to lead us to where we are today. Washington County Sheriff Martin Schulteis said, “The process to obtain approval for Mexico to extradite one of their citizens is a long, arduous, and often frustrating process but in the end, hard work and tenacity paid off in the interest of justice. I was there the night of the search warrant back in 2020 and cannot describe the emotions we all experienced when we learned that Chew had narrowly avoided capture. Naturally, we all doubted whether we would ever see him again. My heart goes out to these victims and am hopeful that they will experience some level of peace knowing he is now back to answer these charges. Based on the high cash bail given, I am confident he will remain in our jail for the remainder of the justice process.”

Chew was taken into custody in Monterrey, Mexico in November of 2023 on these charges and had remained in a prison in Mexico City until this Wednesday when he was flown to Chicago by FBI agents. At that time, he was turned over to the Chicago Police Department. Chew waived extradition to Wisconsin yesterday and was taken into custody by Washington County Sheriff Investigators at the Cook County Jail and returned to Washington County.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend our gratitude to all the partners who assisted in this case. In the interest of the victims, we will not be releasing any further details and ask that their privacy be respected.

According to the directive of the Wisconsin Supreme Court, as found in Supreme Court Rule 20:3.6, Trial Publicity, a charge is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.

Congratulations to Logan Creegan, a junior at Hartford Union High School, for earning the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor in Boy Scouts of America during an Eagle Scout of Honor ceremony. 

Logan is a member of Troop 139 in Hubertus and the son of Jim and Tracy, spearheaded a project to have six AEDs installed in the Village of Richfield parks. Three were attached to existing buildings, and three are now housed in free-standing structures that were built as part of Logan's Eagle Scout project. A total of 792 service hours were logged into the planning and development of the project, with more than $24,000 spent in donated money, discounts, products and services.

In addition to reaching Eagle Scout status, Logan's project has been selected by the Potawatomi Area Council - Boy Scouts of America as its nomination for National Eagle Project of the Year.

The American Heart Association expressed their appreciation with this project and ensuring the placement of these life-saving devices in the village.

Hartford Common Council recognizes outgoing city prosecuting attorney for 33 years of public service.

Tim Algiers was recognized at a recent common council meeting through a proclamation by the city council for his 33 Years of Public Service as Prosecuting Attorney. Tim is retiring from his position with the City of Hartford but staying active in his legal firm of Dahlberg-O' Meara Law Group.

Tim Algiers is a Hartford Union High School graduate and longtime Hartford resident who stepped down from his position in early March, and making way for Jack Rettler to take over this role.

A 77-year-old Beaver Dam woman was seriously injured, and a 57-year-old Stoughton man received non-life-threatening injuries in a traffic crash on U.S. Highway 151 at the intersection with County Highway DE, in the town of Calamus. This intersection is about two miles south of the city of Beaver Dam.

Shortly before noon on Thursday, March 7 the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office received 911 calls of a two-vehicle crash at the intersection. The initial investigation showed the woman’s vehicle was eastbound on County Highway DE, entered the intersection, and collided with the man’s southbound vehicle. The woman was taken to a local hospital after being extricated from the vehicle. A medical helicopter met paramedics at the hospital to take her to a trauma center, with serious and possibly life-threatening injuries. The man was taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. The drivers were the only occupants of each vehicle.

The crash is under investigation by the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office and our Crash Investigation Team. Also responding to the crash were the Beaver Dam Fire Department and Paramedics, Flight For Life, Johnnies 66 Towing, and 10-51 Towing.

Questions may be directed to Sheriff Dale J. Schmidt

A training session was held in the City of Hartford, preparing for upcoming elections.

Monday and Tuesday, March 4 and 5 the City of Hartford hosted training for its election workers. This training provided election workers with an overview of their various roles which can range from setting up the polling place, opening the polls on election morning, greeting voters and ensuring they are at the correct polling location, registering new voters, issuing ballots and maintaining the chain of custody of those ballots, closing the polls at the end of the day and reconciling the number of voters with the number of ballots cast at their polling place.

This training session is required by the state and prepares election workers with the knowledge needed to perform their duties successfully and to ensure that they have fair elections.

The West Bend Plan Commission conditionally-approved a site plan for a 40,000 sq. ft. building addition and parking lot addition at Moraine Park Technical College. 

This project is part of Phase I of the expansion of MPTC’s West Bend Campus facilities, beginning in the spring of 2024, adding a Manufacturing, Automation and Robotics Lab to support advanced manufacturing, welding, metal fabrication and robotics for apprenticeship degree programs and job training.

The lab will bring seven new manufacturing programs to the West Bend Campus, filling the workforce gap over the next ten years and offering hands-on training facilities for the district high schools.

Phase II of the West Bend Campus expansion will begin in spring 2025 and includes the construction of a Conference Center and reconfiguration of the main campus entrance.

Photo by the City of West Bend.

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Department is now taking reservations for the Centennial Feature Shelter, and all other park shelters.

The Centennial Feature Shelter can seat over 50 people and includes tables and chairs, gas fireplace and a buffet counter with a small sink.

Enjoy a beautiful day on the Mill Pond with close access to a brand new playground, fishing and multi-use paths to Downtown Hartford.

Call the Hartford Recreation Center office for available dates, May to October, at 262-670-3730.

There are a number of fun events planned in Sussex.

The Leprechaun Hunt runs from March 11 to March 15 at the Village pf Sussex Parks.

Find the Leprechauns they will place at four of their Sussex Parks and enter to win a prize basket. Clues will be posted on the village website and social media Monday-Thursday at 9 a.m. Leprechauns will stay up through Sunday, March 17. 

Pick up an entry form or download and print it to keep track of your daily answers, then drop it off at the Civic Center by Sunday, March 17 to be entered to win a prize basket. They will pick a winner on Tuesday, March 19.

The Sussex Egg Drop is Saturday, March 23 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Sussex Village Park. Sussex Village Administrator Jeremy Smith told WTKM News that this event seems to be a family favorite.

"This is fun, the kids are excited when the eggs fall. It's great to have this event at Village Park, which is our main 75 acre park. It's great to see all of the families coming together for this annual event." 

The Sussex Fire Department is involved with the Sussex Egg Drop. Thousands of eggs will be dropped from the top of the fire truck ladder for kids to gather up and turn in for a special treat.

The City of Watertown has started off water main reconstruction and sanitary sewer spot repairs on Main Street, between First Street and Water Street. 

Forest Landscaping and Construction, Inc. from Lake Mills, Wisconsin will conduct the repairs. They'll be working to enhance their public utilities in the bridge area before the replacement kicks in. The utility reconstruction work is scheduled to wrap up by the end of March, before moving on to the next phase of the project.

In anticipation of the upcoming Main Street (Cole Memorial) Bridge Replacement Project, necessary work at the Bridge’s northwest quadrant near the Bank First site occurred on Tuesday, February 20. The City contracted with McMullen & Pitz of Manitowoc, WI to complete beam removal and associated site work required to decouple the existing Main Street (Cole Memorial) Bridge from an existing basement foundation wall located near the property line of the Bank First site.

“We are glad to be in a position to begin this next phase; each phase is one step closer to completing the Bridge replacement,” Mayor Emily McFarland said. “I am grateful to our partners at Bank First for their cooperation and willingness to move this project forward.”

To facilitate the safe removal of the beams connecting the two structures, sheet piling installation and excavation work was conducted behind the wall to alleviate loading on the existing basement foundation wall. This phase of the project is expected to take a few weeks to complete.

Construction equipment will be staged in the existing road closure area and no further road closures or detours are anticipated. 

Dodge County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a two-vehicle injury crash on Tuesday, March 5 around 4:11 p.m. on US Hwy 151 / County Hwy DE in the Town of Beaver Dam, in Dodge County. 

The initial investigation shows a 2018 Ford Escape was traveling southbound on U.S. Hwy. 151 and a 2001 Buick Park Avenue was traveling eastbound on County Hwy DE. The Buick had attempted to cross over U.S. Hwy 151 and was struck by the 2018 Ford Escape. The driver of the Buick, identified as a 76-year-old man from Fall River, Wisconsin sustained what is believed to be life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Ford, identified as an 18-year-old man from Kewaskum, Wisconsin sustained non-life threatening injuries. Beaver Dam Paramedics transported the 76-year-old man to Marshfield Medical Center in Beaver Dam. UW Med Flight then flew him to UW Hospital in Madison for treatment. Beaver Dam Paramedics transported the 18-year-old man to Marshfield Medical Center in Beaver Dam. At this time, names are being withheld pending notification of family. This crash remains under investigation by the crash investigation team.

Assisting at the scene was Beaver Dam Police Department, Beaver Dam Police Auxiliary, Beaver Dam Fire/EMS, Dodge County Emergency Response Team, and UW Med Flight.

Questions may be directed to Sheriff Dale J. Schmidt.

The Village of Sussex has announced a change with the voting process.

Starting with the Spring Election on April 2, the Village of Sussex will use electronic poll books instead of paper poll books to:

Check in voters

Register new voters

Process absentee ballots

Electronic Poll Books are safe and easy to use.

Voters still use a paper ballot and place their ballot into the tabulator.

No voting data is stored on the electronic poll book.

They are not connected to the internet or any outside source.

Fewer errors.

Come out and see the electronic poll books in action at their open house on Tuesday, March 12 at 6 p.m. at the Sussex Civic Center.

Questions? Call the Sussex Village Clerk's office at (262) 246-5200.

The West Bend Police Department recognized citizens that assisted the department in 2023 with clearing crimes, preventing crimes and helping their fellow citizens in need. 

Kevin G. Feltes:

On Thursday, 02/09/23, at 3:16PM, Kevin Feltes was removing snow at the southeast corner of the intersection of Silverbrook Drive and Chestnut Street when he witnessed a vehicle strike a stop sign. The vehicle did not stop and drove away from the scene. Mr. Feltes obtained a vehicle description, the plate number, and contacted the West Bend Police Department. The driver was later located and issued a citation for Hit and Run.

Mr. Feltes further assisted DPW workers with making the fallen stop sign visible to traffic until it could be replaced with a temporary stop sign. Due to Mr. Feltes’ report and cooperation with the police, the actor was located, identified and cited.

Katherine G. Geidel, Terry J. Hamlin and Karie A. Kahrs:

On Sunday, 04/16/23, around 9:54 AM, the West Bend Police Department received several phone calls and notifications of a man passed out in a vehicle while on the road at the intersection of W. Paradise Drive and S. Main Street. Ms. Katherine Geidel flagged down an officer in the area while Mr. Terry Hamlin and Ms. Karie Kahrs called West Bend Dispatch.

Upon the officer’s arrival, the vehicle in question was observed northbound on Main Street. The officer stopped the vehicle in the 1600 block of South Main Street. During the investigation, the officer detected an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The driver admitted to having marijuana in the vehicle. A search of the vehicle located marijuana, a scale, prescription medication not belonging to the driver and a loaded firearm. The driver was a convicted felon.

The driver failed Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. The driver was arrested for Operating While Impaired, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of a Prescription without a Valid Prescription, Armed while Intoxicated, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Operating after Suspension and a Probation Hold.

Ms. Geidel, Mr. Hamlin and Ms. Kahrs acted quickly and contacted police which led to getting an impaired driver off the road as well as drugs and a weapon out of the hands of a felon.

Michelle Lang:

On Thursday, 05/04/23, at around 7:00 PM, Michelle Lang was riding her bicycle on the path near the river when she observed an obscene drawing in spray paint on the bridge to the Eisenbahn Trail that crosses over the Milwaukee River. Ms. Lang also noticed she could smell fresh spray paint and immediately called the police department to report it. Officers responded and located two juveniles in the area who were found to have spray paint on them. The juveniles admitted to spraying the obscene drawing on the bridge. Ms. Lang’s quick action greatly assisted in the location and apprehension of the actors in this case.

Brett T. LeClair:

On Tuesday, 05/09/23, at around 5:21PM, officers and West Bend Fire Department Paramedics were dispatched to Walmart, a report of a man who had fallen inside the store, was bleeding from the head, and was unresponsive. Brett LeClair, an employee of Walmart, responded to help the man. Mr. LeClair assessed the man and realized the man was not breathing and did not have a pulse. Mr. LeClair started CPR before the officers arrived on scene. West Bend Paramedics also arrived and continued live-saving intervention and transported the man to a hospital and was discharged three weeks later after recovering. Mr. LeClair’s quick assessment and intervention to start CPR played a pivotal role in saving the man’s life.

Kristin R. Mohr & Marisue Larkee:

On 05/25/23, at around 3:30PM, Kristin Mohr was driving northbound on S. Main Street near Chestnut Street and Marisue Larkee was southbound on S. Main Street. Both witnessed a girl on a bicycle cross Main Street followed by a boy on a bicycle. When the boy was in the intersection, he was struck by a northbound vehicle. The boy was knocked off his bicycle and appeared injured in the roadway. Both women, who are trained in first aid, immediately stopped their vehicles and tended to the boy. They remained with the boy, keeping him calm and still, until West Bend Police and Fire Department Paramedics arrived. Both are commended for her willingness to get involved, utilize their training, and kindness towards a child in need.

Ashley N. Duchow & Brandon Volk:

On 06/18/23, at around 10:00AM, Ashley Duchow, a nurse, was working as a waitress at Charcoal Grill. Brandon Volk was eating in the dining room. Ms. Duchow heard a commotion in the dining room and noticed a customer was choking on food and turning blue. Ms. Duchow and Mr. Volk sprang into action when the victim became unresponsive. Ms. Duchow performed compressions on the customer’s chest while Mr. Volk monitored the customer’s airway. When Ms. Duchow’s compressions dislodged the food, Mr. Volk removed the food from the customer’s mouth. Once the food came out, the victim began to breathe and made a full recovery. Ms. Duchow and Mr. Volk are commended for their quick response to a citizen in a medical emergency.

Dennis M. Kratz Sr and Griz, Michael Krpez, and Jonathan L. Lehnerz:

On 09/22/23, at around 11:30AM, Dennis Kratz Sr and his dog were in the parking lot of Habitat for Humanity when Griz started barking. Griz is well-trained and only barks when something is wrong. The barking caused Mr. Kratz to look at a vehicle where he saw a man was slumped over behind the wheel. Mr. Kratz immediately notified employees of the business. Employee Jonathan Lehnerz and customer Michael Krpez went to the parking lot to check on the man. Mr. Lehnerz noticed the man in the vehicle was unresponsive and checked the man’s vital signs. Mr. Lehnerz called 911. Mr. Krpez noticed the vehicle was still running and not in park. Mr. Krpez was able to get the vehicle in park while Mr. Lehnerz remained with the man and monitored his agonal breathing until personnel from the West Bend Police Department and the West Bend Fire Department arrived It was determined the man in the vehicle was suffering a narcotic overdose. West Bend Fire Department Paramedics were able to revive the man.

The man was eventually arrested for Operating While Under the Influence (1st Offense) and Possession of Marijuana. Due to Mr. Kratz and his canine’s keen observation skills and Mr. Krpez and Mr. Lehnerz quick actions during an overdose, they saved a man’s life and removed an impaired driver from the roadway.

Scott W. Cecil, Anthony Klemme, and Neven Stojsavljevic:

On 09/23/23, at around 11:00PM, officers were dispatched to the area of Collin’s Deck Bar for the report of an intoxicated man who was yelling and screaming and threatening patrons. An officer had located the man in the front of the tavern and tried engaging in conversation with him about his behavior. The man tried walking away from the officer. The officer told the man to stop and grabbed the man’s right hand and told the man he was under arrest. The male lunged at the officer’s waist and fought with the officer. During the scuffle, the officer ended up on the ground with the man on top of him.

A second officer arrived on scene and a taser was used on the man, but the man continued to resist after the taser deployment. One of the officers recognized a patron nearby and requested assistance from him to assist in controlling the man until additional police officers arrived. Scott Cecil, Anthony Klemme, and Neven Stojscavljevic came to the aid of the officers and helped control the man’s legs and arms. The officers were able to handcuff the man. Mr. Cecil’s, Mr. Klemme, and Mr. Stojscavljevic’s willingness to assist police with controlling the resistive subject allowed officers to safely take the male into custody. Their assistance prevented the situation from escalating further and potentially putting other bystanders, the man, or officers at risk of injury.

Abbigail F. Hall:

On 10/15/23, Abbigail Hall found a wallet at the Holy Hill Basilica which contained over $600.00 in cash, a passport, and numerous credit cards. Ms. Hall went to a local police department who referred her to the West Bend Police Department because she lived in West Bend. The wallet was taken for safekeeping, and the owner was located. The wallet’s owner collected his wallet and was very grateful for Ms. Hall’s actions. Ms. Hall’s honesty is commendable.

Shawn M. Brandenburg, Brian J. Pomeroy, Robin Kranz, Andrew Meisegeier, Michael Shaw, Monica J. Lohry, Cindy and Christopher Kurlinski:

In the past year, the citizens listed above observed impaired drivers in the City of West Bend and took action. In each case, these citizens either followed the vehicle or obtained descriptions and contacted the police. This information, and the citizens’ willingness to get involved, allowed the police to locate and stop these vehicles. In each of these cases, the drivers were either intoxicated or impaired by use of narcotic drugs and charged with OWI. Their actions helped prevent vehicle crashes, serious injuries and deaths. 

Monday night, March 4 at approximately 9:56 p.m., the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a house fire at a single family residence in the 9200 block of Orchard Valley Road, in the Town of Farmington.  The fire was reported by the property owner. The caller advised there was fire that was spreading in the residence from the gas fireplace.

Deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene along with the Boltonville Fire Department.  The Boltonville Fire Department was also assisted by the Beechwood, Silver Creek, and Kewaskum Fire Departments.

Orchard Valley Road was closed for approximately one and a half hours during the investigation and firefighting operation. 

There were no injuries to the occupants or any personnel on scene as a result of the fire.  The residence sustained moderate damage due to the fire, smoke, and water.  Preliminary damage estimates were believed to be between $150,000 and 200,000.

Early indication points to the origin of the fire being a lightning strike to the gas meter.

Dodge County Deputies responded to a single-vehicle injury crash on Monday, March 4 around 11:36 a.m. on S. Center Road in the Town of Beaver Dam, in Dodge County. 

Initial investigation shows a 2018 Ford Taurus was traveling northbound on S. Center Road and entered the southbound ditch. The vehicle struck a field drive, causing the vehicle to vault. After the vehicle came to rest, a bystander assisted in extricating the driver to safety before the vehicle lit on fire. A 49-year-old man from the Town of Beaver Dam sustained what’s believed to be serious injuries because of the crash. He was transported to Marshfield Medical Center by Beaver Dam Paramedics and later flown by UW Med Flight to Aurora Summit Hospital. This incident is currently under investigation by the crash investigation team. The name of the driver is being withheld pending notification of the driver’s family.

Assisting at the scene were Beaver Dam Fire/EMS, Dodge County Emergency Response Team, UW Med Flight, and 10-51 Towing.

Questions may be directed to Sheriff Dale J. Schmidt

The Dodge County Executive Law Enforcement Association, an association made up of law enforcement executives including Dodge County police chiefs, prison wardens, the district attorney, the sheriff, and other leaders are proud to announce a scholarship opportunity of $2500 which is being graciously donated by Napleton Chevrolet Buick GMC in Beaver Dam.

This scholarship is aimed at supporting local high school seniors or college students who are residents of Dodge County. The program is specifically tailored for those pursuing a degree in criminal justice or a related field at an accredited university or technical college. To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled as full-time students. Don’t miss this chance to further your education in the field of law enforcement. The deadline to apply is March 15, 2024. Applications can be found at the following website: www.co.dodge.wi.gov/department/sheriff/dcelea. 

Questions can be directed to Juneau Police Chief David Beal.

Tree trimming starts up again and the process continues in the City of Hartford. 

Now that snow management season has taken a long pause, this gives their public works crews more time to get back to tree trimming. Trimming trees along terraces is an important way to prevent future breakages and damage to passing vehicles. The biggest issues come with tall trucks that travel curbside like garbage, plow and delivery trucks. Tree trimming is a necessary way to manage these trees within the terraces.

This is the time of year the Hartford City Parks staff members like to do some tree trimming. They always try and allow the frost to set in to minimize the damage to our green spaces. Though there is not much frost, they have dedicated plenty of time to address the work that needs to be done. 

The hiring of Luke Bares this past summer has enhanced their ability to keep this work within the departments. Luke has an extensive background in tree maintenance. A lift has been rented, and Luke...along with the rest of the park crew have been working together to take down some trees and have done some trimming as well.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office recently extended their appreciation to the Wisconsin County Mutual Insurance Corporation and Community Insurance Corporation for awarding one of only seven grants statewide.

One of the priorities of the Sheriff’s Office was developing and implementing a co-response crisis program. Our model started in late 2023 and partners highly trained deputies with mental health professionals who directly respond to incidents within our community that involve either mental health and/or addiction issues. In addition to responding directly to incidents, the teams prioritize follow-up in an attempt to keep at risk individuals out of the criminal justice system.

The Sheriff’s Office is grateful for this grant which will be used for advanced training for our teams.

The Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with Washington County Human Services, currently has three teams that serve residents seven days a week.

An attempted traffic stop remains under investigation.

An officer with the Watertown Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop last month with a vehicle in the area of N. Church St. at Rock St. for a defective headlight. The vehicle initially stopped, but then drove away from the officer. The officer pursued the vehicle through the city. Speeds ranged from 40 to 60 m.p.h. with minimal traffic throughout the pursuit.

The vehicle eventually stopped on Clovercrest Ct. off of Oconomowoc Ave. The driver and two occupants fled on foot from the vehicle. One other occupant, a 15 year old female, immediately exited with her hands in the air and complied with the officers. Officers were able to apprehend all other occupants.

Located within the vehicle was a loaded revolver, cocaine, THC products and open intoxicants. The driver, a 15-yr-old male, was transported to the hospital for a severe ankle injury from falling from a retaining wall. A 17 year old male was transported to the Jefferson County Jail for encouraging the felony eluding and for bail jumping. A 16 year old male was turned over to a guardian. None of the subjects involved reside in Watertown.

This case remains under investigation pending additional charges.

An update was released by the Hartford Police Department regarding their emergency communications center merging with the Washington County dispatch center.

The dispatching services are fully merged with Washington County dispatch and their former emergency communications center, now their administrative front office currently have new hours. Staff will be available Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. During those hours, you can call the non-emergency line 262-673-2600 and a Police Support Specialist will be available to assist you. If they are on another line, you may be routed to the auto attendant. You can still walk into their lobby and talk to a Police Support Specialist in person during normal business hours, as you have in the past.

After hours, whether you call the non-emergency line 262-673-2600 or walk into their lobby and pick up the phone, you will be routed to the auto attendant to choose the option of where you would like to be directed. If you are calling for an emergency, you will be directed to hang up and immediately and dial 9-1-1. If it is non-emergent, you will be given the option of being forwarded immediately to the Washington County dispatch center where a dispatcher will send a Hartford officer to assist you. Just because you are calling and speaking with a dispatcher from the Washington County dispatch center does not mean they are going to send a Washington County deputy instead of a Hartford officer to assist you. Hartford resources whether police, fire, or EMS will still be dispatched to your call for service.

Currently when you call 9-1-1 from your cell phone, the Washington County dispatch answers your call. If you are calling about an emergency in the City of Hartford, your call is transferred to the Hartford emergency communications center and we dispatch police, fire, and/or EMS services. This will change. Instead of Washington County dispatch transferring the call to Hartford, they will immediately dispatch Hartford emergency services (police, fire, EMS) to the call, thereby shortening the time emergency services can respond. Currently if you call 9-1-1 from a landline, the call will be answered by the Hartford emergency communications center. The Washington County dispatch center will be answering those landline emergency calls as well, and dispatching emergency services. The only difference is another agency, other than Hartford, is answering the call. The caller will still be communicating with a trained professional who will be able to assist them.

A tremendous amount of effort and collaboration between the Hartford Police Department, Hartford Fire and Rescue, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was necessary to ensure a transition like this was, and continues to be, successful. This was no small undertaking. It is an understatement to say I appreciate the efforts of staff from both agencies who are working to ensure the continuity of operations, and the continued delivery of professional services to the City of Hartford. They will continue to notify the public of other changes that may relate to this transition as this is still a work in progress until it comes to fruition.

A huge thank you goes out to the Hartford Police Department dispatchers, now and over the years, who have provided professional services to the Hartford community for well over 60 years.

The dedicated leaders of the City of Hartford were recently recognized, due to their great efforts with giving back through the United Way.  

The event was held at the West Bend Insurance Prairie Center, and members of the City of Hartford staff were recognized for their efforts in leading the organization in giving back to the community through United Way of Washington County.

The 2023 United Way Campaign came to a triumphant close with a record setting total of raising just over $1.9 million dollars. The City of Hartford staff were recognized as United Way Pacesetters for running their campaign early, as members of the Leaderboard for raising over $10,000, as All-Star Champions for double digit increase in year over year contribution, and Corporate and Employee Excellence.

Congratulations to the Hartford City Staff for all of their efforts and for all the residents and businesses that participated in any way to the Steel for United Way and Reindeer Run, which together made these accomplishments possible.

The Dodge County Sheriff's Office features important information with their law of the month.

This month, they will discuss safely passing a vehicle on the left. We all have passed a vehicle on the left on a two-way highway in a passing zone. A passing zone is indicated by the center line as follows; The center line markings on two-lane, two-way highways shall be one of the following: A normal broken yellow line with passing permitted. A double line, one normal broken yellow line, and one normal solid yellow line where passing is permitted in one direction.

The pass must begin and be completed within the passing zone. There is nothing in the statute that allows the passing vehicle to exceed the posted speed limit while passing another vehicle.

346.075 (2) and 346.08 to 346.11:

346.07 Overtaking and passing on the left. The following rules govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction, subject to those limitations, exceptions and special rules stated in ss. 346.075 (2) and 346.08 to 346.11:

(2) The operator of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction shall pass to the left thereof at a safe distance and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle.

(3) Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the operator of an overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle and shall not increase the speed of the vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.