It's an annual tradition to recognize all of the great people and businesses that make Hartford what it is - a great place to live, work and play.

The Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce held their Annual Dinner and Awards on Thursday, January 29 at the Chandelier Ballroom in Hartford.

The theme was A Night at the Derby.

Derby attire was encouraged.

This annual event serves as a celebration of achievements, community spirit of local businesses, and provides an opportunity to fund programs and initiatives that support the chamber's mission: fostering economic growth, networking, educational workshops, advocacy for businesses, and local community events.

"This is an annual fundraiser for us," according to Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kate Carroll. "We appreciate all of our donations, sponsorships and support. It means so much."

The annual dinner was open to the public, along with Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce members.  

Awards were handed out, including the Emerging Business of the Year to Gino's Pizza. The Flower Cafe and Oscar's Wine Bar were also nominated.

Red Apple Cafe won the Entrepreneur Excellence award, with B's Bouquets, LLC and Forward Remodeling receiving nominations in that category.

The Outstanding Non-Profit of the Year went to St. Vincent De Paul. Hartford Community Service, for Terror on Rural Street and the Medical Center Foundation of Hartford were also nominated.

Quad was recognized as the Industrial Partner of the Year. Other businesses that were nominated include HED, Inc. and JD Laser, Inc.

Ane and Bill Ohm were winners of the Jim and Dorothy Algiers Service of Dedication Award. The other nominees were Tom Hostad and Ralph Kuepper.

MJ's Market and Catering were recognized with the Legacy Award. Laufer Trucking and Wayne's Barber Shop were also nominated. 

Dodge County Sheriff’s deputies responded to an accident which involved a car and a tractor-trailer at the intersection of County Highway S, at Main Street in Oak Grove.  

It happened on Thursday, January 29 at 12:50 p.m.

A 46-year-old woman, of Beaver Dam, was headed southbound on Main Street and failed to yield the right of way from a stop sign. She was struck by an eastbound tractor, pulling a loaded trailer. The driver of the tractor was a 63-year-old man from Oshkosh. The female subject sustained life-threatening injuries and was flown to a hospital by Flight for Life helicopter. The driver of the semi was not injured.

The Horicon Fire Department, Juneau Fire Department, Juneau EMS, Flight for Life, Beaver Dam Paramedics, Dodge County Emergency Response Team and the Dodge County Emergency Management assisted at the scene.

Names are being withheld pending family notification, according to the Dodge County Sheriff's Office.

Heaters are used quite a bit this time of the year.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters are most often responsible for home heating fires.

Allenton Fire Chief and president of the Wisconsin State Fire Chief’s Association John Breuer. 

"Verify that your space heater has been tested and make sure it has a thermostat and overheat protection. With all heating units, there is the rule of three feet separation on all sides of the unit from any combustible materials."

Chief Breuer also says to plug your space heater power cords directly into outlets. Never plug your heaters into an extension cord. 

And always turn off the heating unit when you leave the room or go to sleep.

Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann announced on Wednesday, January 28 that he's dropping out of the race for Wisconsin governor. It comes after President Donald Trump endorsed Wisconsin's 7th congressional district representative Tom Tiffany in the race for Wisconsin governor.

Schoemann released a statement on the Josh Schoemann for Governor Facebook page:

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office responded to a commercial motor vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 151, northbound at State Highway 26 in Chester Wednesday morning, January 28 at 6:15 a.m.

A 61-year-old man from Marshall was operating a tractor-trailer heading northbound on U.S. 151, when the vehicle left the roadway to the left, struck a guardrail and overturned. It blocked both northbound lanes.

U.S. 151 northbound is closed, at the time of this story, between the State Highway 26 off-ramp and on-ramp. Traffic is being detoured off the highway and immediately back on at this location. Motorists may experience minor delays and possible backups while crossing State Highway 26. This detour is expected to last for a lengthy period of time, as the vehicle will need to be offloaded before it can be removed.

The Waupun Fire Department, Waupun Police Department, Dodge County Emergency Response Team, Dodge County Highway Department, Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Wisconsin State Patrol are assisting at the scene.

The crash remains under investigation by the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office.

The Western Lakes Fire District responded to a commercial fire alarm at Town Place Suites in the City of Oconomowoc on Tuesday, January 27.

A partial evacuation had occurred, and crews initiated an investigation of the alarm. Firefighters entered the fourth floor of the hotel and visible smoke prompted an upgrade to a structure fire response. An attic fire was discovered by breaching the ceiling, and suppression efforts began.

A full structure fire response was requested, including a full response from the District and mutual aid from Lake Country, Hartland, City of Waukesha, Merton, and City of Brookfield. Additional units from Pewaukee, Watertown, Mukwonago, and Vernon provided coverage for secondary calls during the incident.

The fire's cause was determined to be an extension cord powering a heating element to prevent frozen sprinkler pipes. No injuries were reported during the incident.

The Hartford Union High School Showcase begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28.

This open house will feature hands-on activities and live demonstrations.

Hartford Union High School Director of Communications Laura Trapp told WTKM all about it.

"It is taking place throughout the entire school. We have a big FFA program, and they always bring in baby lambs. We will have our Tech Ed area open, with demonstrations by an electric car. You can decorate cupcakes in culinary and make slim in chemistry. The spanish department is doing a really fun photo booth. All of our clubs and athletics will be there."

Hartford Union High School is located at 805 Cedar Street, in the City of Hartford. The Showcase is open until 8 p.m.    

There is more information regarding an incident that happened on Sunday, January 25 at 3:25 a.m. in West Bend.

The West Bend Police Department says officers responded to the 700 block of South River Road after a 52-year-old man reported that he had stabbed his 45-year-old girlfriend during a domestic dispute.

West Bend officers located the woman suffering from multiple stab wounds. She was transported to a local hospital, where she is expected to survive.

The man, identified as Kevin Fischer, was taken into custody and transported to the Washington County Jail. He has been charged by the Washington County District Attorney’s Office with attempted first degree intentional homicide. 

This incident remains under investigation.

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office has a man in custody following an investigation into a domestic abuse incident, and a search with concern for his welfare due to the extreme cold weather. 

In the early morning hours of Monday, January 26 deputies began an investigation into a domestic abuse incident that occurred in Beaver Dam. After interviewing the victim, deputies went to the location of the incident to interview the suspect, 40-year-old Jeramie Hurley, of rural Beaver Dam, who was believed to have left on foot. The suspect was not found on initial searches and based on the extreme weather and concerns for his welfare, incident command was established and an emergency alert was sent to people in the area to be on the lookout for the man. Shortly after 9 a.m., he was taken into custody and was not injured. 

A request will be sent to the Dodge County District Attorney to charge Jeramie Hurley with Felony False Imprisonment, Felony Intimidation of a Victim, Misdemeanor Battery and Misdemeanor Disorderly Conduct.

All charges will have domestic abuse penalty enhancers.

The sheriff’s office was assisted by the Beaver Dam Police Department.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office released information, in order to inform the public of a sex offender’s release when, in the discretion of the agency, the release of information will enhance public safety, awareness and protection. The individual who appears on this notification has been convicted and his criminal history places him in a classification level, which reflects the potential to re-offend.

James C. Castro Sr. will be moving into the residence at 1725 County Highway NN in the Town of Jackson on Tuesday, January 27. Castro was convicted of two counts of 4th Degree sexual assault in Washington County and one count of 3rd Degree sexual assault in Washington County. He will be monitored closely by WI-DOC Division of Community. James C. Castro Sr. will have numerous rules and restrictions to follow.

This offender has served the prison sentence imposed on him by the courts. He is not wanted by law enforcement at the time of this story. 

Questions: Probation/Parole Agent Monica Daniels at 262-335-5665, Sex Offender Registration Specialist Alyssa Angell 262-335-5665 or Sgt. Michael Hennes at 262-365-5054.

It's an annual tradition to recognize all of the great people and businesses that make Hartford what it is - a great place to live, work and play.

The Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce presents their Annual Dinner and Awards on Thursday, January 29 at the Chandelier Ballroom in Hartford.

The theme is A Night at the Derby.

"Dust off those Derby hats and anything you have that represents the Kentucky Derby," says Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce Event and Program Manager Barb Bielmeier. "We will be celebrating our community area businesses."

Derby attire is encouraged.

This annual event serves as a celebration of achievements, community spirit of local businesses, and provides an opportunity to fund programs and initiatives that support the chamber's mission: fostering economic growth, networking, educational workshops, advocacy for businesses, and local community events.

"This is an annual fundraiser for us," according to Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kate Carroll. "Barb does a wonderful job and our dinner committee is fantastic with reaching out to our membership and even those who may not be a member for possible support with sponsorships. We appreciate all of our donations, it means so much."

The annual dinner is open to the public, along with Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce members.  

With recent temperatures below zero, warming shelters have become available in Dodge County.

Dodge County Public Health has released the locations:

Dodge County Human Services and Health Department

199 County Road DF

Juneau, WI  53039

Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

920-386-3500

Hustisford Public Library

609 W. Juneau Street

Hustisford, WI  53034

Monday - Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Friday,  10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday,  9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

920-349-3463

Horicon Public Library

404 E. Lake Street

Horicon, WI  53032

Monday - Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

920-485-3535

Columbus Public Library

223 W. James Street

Columbus, WI  53925

Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

920-623-5910

Beaver Dam Community Library

1701 N. Spring Street (temporary location)

Beaver Dam, WI  53916

Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

920-887-4631

Hutchinson Memorial Library

228 N. High Street

Randolph, WI  53956

Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

920-326-4640

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received a call of a possible structure fire on Congress Drive, in Trenton.  The original call came from a neighbor on Friday night, January 23 at 9:39 p.m.

Deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene along with the Newburg Fire Department. Initial fire responders and deputies were able to determine the structure was an outbuilding and not a residence. 

The Newburg Fire Department was assisted by area fire departments, including Hartford Fire and Rescue, Fillmore, West Bend, Jackson, Boltonville, Slinger, Germantown, Kewaskum, Allenton, Richfield, St. Lawrence, Kohlsville, Ozaukee Central, Southern Ozaukee, Cedarburg, Waubeka, Port Washington, Fredonia, Silver Creek and Lifestar EMS. Additional support was provided by Milwaukee Fire Bells, Washington County Highway Department, Town of Trenton DPW, Newburg DPW, and WE Energies.   

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Early indication point to a heat source, according to the Newburg Fire Department. An early damage estimate is in the area of $500,000. 

A barn fire was reported on Friday, January 23 at 12:12 p.m. on Hilltop Drive in Germantown.

Responding crews were able to knock down the blaze and allow the rescue of live animals. Rite Way bus company provided a warming station.

The fire was extinguished, and there were no injuries. The barn is a total loss.

There were over 40 firefighters who actively worked on the scene. 

Germantown Department of Public Works provided an excavator to aid in overhaul. 

The following schools will be closed on Friday, January 23:

Hartford Union High School

School District of Hartford Joint #1 (activities canceled)

Holy Hill Area School District

Kewaskum School District

Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School

Lake Country Lutheran High School

Hustisford School District

Dodgeland School District

West Bend School District

Jackson schools

Menomonee Falls School District

Kettle Moraine School District

Watertown School District

Oconomowoc Area School District

St. John's Lutheran School, Newburg

Other:

Threshold Inc. in West Bend

Hartford Senior Center - closed Thursday, January 22 and Friday, January 23. Bingo canceled.

All Washington County Senior Dining Meal sites will be closed on Friday, January 23 due to the weather. It includes home delivered meals.  

The National Weather Service has issued an extreme cold warning for all of Wisconsin. In southeastern Wisconsin, the extreme cold warning will be in effect from midnight on Thursday, January 22 until 1 p.m. on Friday, January 23.

Dangerously cold wind chills could reach as low as 40 below zero, which could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.

An extreme cold watch will be in effect from Friday afternoon until Saturday morning, January 24.

"It's important to limit your time outside," Spero Gardens' License Practical Nurse and Community Relations Manager Julianne Aulenbacher says. "Dress warmly and cover up with windy conditions." 

Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissue freeze after prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. It commonly affects fingers, ears, toes and noses. Wind chill increases the risk, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.  

Early symptoms of frostbite include numbness, tingling or a stinging sensation. As the condition worsens, skin may turn white or grayish. 

Limit your time outdoors during periods of extreme cold. Dress in loose-fitting, layered clothing and ensure that all exposed skin is covered when going outside.

Hats, gloves, and scarves help protect the areas most vulnerable to frostbite. Staying dry is also important. 

The Lac La Belle Police Department has received reports of projectiles causing damage to vehicles while driving on North Lake Road/State Highway 67 in the Village of Lac La Belle. These incidents happened between December 27 of last year to January 16.

The reports are under investigation.

Contact the Lac La Belle Police Department at 920-474-4812 if you have any information regarding this case. 

Dangerously cold temperatures are set to grip southeast Wisconsin.

An extreme cold watch will go into effect Thursday night, January 22 with a low of minus 16 expected.

Weatherology Lead Forecaster Paul Trambley told WTKM that this cold snap is expected to last into the weekend.

"The coldest temperatures of the season so far, and what could be the coldest temperatures of the winter season, is expected to come in behind that arctic cold front as we get into Thursday night and then the weekend. We'll experience lows in the teens to twenty below zero across the area. Daytime highs will stay in the single digits."

Expect a high temperature of minus five on Friday, January 23 and a low of minus seventeen. We're back to zero on Saturday, January 24.        

Bitterly cold temperatures have had an impact this winter season.

Keep an eye on your pets, as temperatures are expected to fall below zero Thursday night, January 22 and continue through Saturday, January 24. An extreme cold watch will be in effect through that time frame with dangerously cold temperatures.

Dogs are susceptible to frostbite, especially to their paws, ear tips, nose and tail when exposed to freezing temperatures.

VCA Saukville Animal Hospital Technical Supervisor Lindsey Schulz says antifreeze can be harmful to your pet.

"It's a big thing during winter, people are using antifreeze. They drain it and it is put on the ground and the dog ingests it that way. It's a big thing to be cautious about."               

Lindsey Schulz told WTKM to clean off their paws after spending time outside. 

"Wiping off their paws to make sure they don't have salt in their paws is a great thing to do. Some dogs will allow their owners to put boots on their feet, which is a great idea. Keep that exposure outside to a minimum."

Clinical signs associated with frostbite in dogs include discoloration, coldness, swelling and blisters.  

The Hustisford School Board meeting on Monday night, January 19 involved the passage of a referendum resolution, according to Todd Bugnacki. The Hustisford Interim Superindendent told WTKM that an operational referendum question will appear on the April 7, 2026 ballot.      

There is certainly some urgency here, when you consider a growing deficit for the District.

Bugnacki says the referendum is for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years. It would allow them to borrow $3.75 million over the course of two years - $1.875 million each year. 

"The question would go toward the use of those dollars to address our operational deficit, which continues to grow," according to Bugnacki. "The question that will be asked of the public is to approve a dollar amount for us to borrow to address our deficit and to continue with the operation of our district and to maintain our educational programs."

Hustisford's superintendent says that they are asking for two years so, during that time,  the board can make plans to potentially consolidate with neighboring districts. The worst case scenario for the Hustisford School District, if the referendum fails, is to dissolve.         

A snowy morning is expected for Wednesday, January 21. 

A winter weather advisory has been issued for southern Wisconsin from 9 p.m. on Tuesday evening, January 20 until 6 a.m. on Wednesday. The advisory will impact Jefferson County, Waukesha County, Milwaukee County, Kenosha County, Racine County and Walworth County. Around 2 to 5 inches of snow is possible.

Weatherology Lead Forecaster Paul Trambley told WTKM about some expected lighter snowfall for Hartford.

"An Alberta clipper system is expected to bring snow showers into the area and its expected to taper off early morning Wednesday. Accumulation potential stays at around one to two inches. An arctic cold front will make its way across the area Wednesday night."     

Wednesday's high temperature is 22 degrees with cloudy skies with a low of six degrees.

The West Bend Fire Department was dispatched to a single-family residence for a report of smoke and flames coming from an attached garage. It happened on Sunday, January 18 at 11:44 a.m.

Heavy smoke was spotted from the front panels of the garage door, with flames and smoke visible from the east side of the garage. The fire was quickly brought under control.

No one was inside the home at the time.

The fire started in the garage and spread into the attic.

Area fire departments from Kewaskum, Jackson and St. Lawrence assisted along with the West Bend Police Department.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.   

The Beaver Dam Fire Department was dispatched to 309 Jefferson Street in the City of Beaver Dam on Monday, January 19 at 9:34 a.m. for a report of smoke inside an apartment. The caller reported visible smoke but no flames.

Crews found a 16-unit apartment building with no smoke or fire showing from the exterior. Firefighters entered the structure and located an active fire in a bedroom of a second floor apartment. A handline was advanced to the second floor, and the fire was quickly extinguished.

Firefighters also ensured the safe evacuation of the building.

The fire was contained to the room, but smoke and water damage affected additional areas of the building. Due to the fire and necessary suppression efforts, electrical service had to be disconnected to half of the structure.

The Beaver Dam Fire Department is coordinating with the American Red Cross to provide temporary housing for displaced residents. The remaining eight apartment units were not damaged, and those residents have been allowed to return home.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined at the time of this story, and remains under investigation.

More snow is in the forecast for Tuesday, January 20. Area snowplows continue to work to clear the roads.

Hartford City Administrator Steve Volkert told WTKM that it's important to use extra caution around removal equipment.

"It's a reminder for everyone to please provide plenty of distance between you and a snowplow, do not tailgate when you are driving behind a plow. They have no idea what's going to come flying off one of those plows."

200 feet is the recommended distance when following a snowplow. Give them plenty of room to work, in this case and exercise caution.

One to three inches of snow is in the forecast for Tuesday night, with light snow expected into early Wednesday morning, January 21. 

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Monday, January 19.

It's a day to honor the life and legacy of the American civil rights icon.

This federal holiday is observed each year as a national day of service to encourage Americans to volunteer and improve their communities.

Government offices and banks are closed on this day.

Photo from Fox News. 

Grab your warm layers. We’ve got a bitterly cold day on Monday, January 19, with wind chills of minus 25.

Weatherology Lead Forecaster Paul Trambley told WTKM about the weather pattern.

"We have a bitter start to the week. Gusty west winds will hang around along with bitter cold wind chills and blowing snow. Lows on Monday night expected to be below zero. Snow shower chances return on Tuesday."

Tuesday, January 20 will present a high of 12 degrees and a low temperature of eight. 22 degrees expected for Wednesday, January 21. 

Wisconsin has a new fair embassador.

Kaelie Billingsley, of Kenosha County, was crowned the Wisconsin Fairest of the Fairs.

The program has been going strong for 60 years.

The Fairest of the Fairs represents 74 county, district and state fairs in Wisconsin. The association's mission is to provide programming and resources to its members to enhance the vitality of the Fair industry.

Photo by the Fairest of the Fair.  

Unexpected house guests can become an issue with winter weather and the drop in temperatures.

Wildlife expert Marcus Mueller says mice and squirrels are looking for a warm place to be.

"An animal is looking for that shelter. Different animals require different shelter needs. A squirrel is looking to build a warm nest. Bats are looking for a place over winter, like our attics."

Sealing any possible entry points is a good way to keep them out. Store your food in air-tight containers and remove any clutter that could provide a nesting area.     

It's a special milestone in the City of Hartford, with the EMS celebrating their 50th Anniversary.

On January 10, 1976 the Hartford Emergency Squad started as a Basic EMT service to the city, responding to 202 EMS calls throughout their first year. Throughout the next 50 years, the Hartford Emergency Squad has merged with the Fire Department and progressed into Advanced EMT and now Paramedic level service. 

The department saw a major rise in service, with EMTs handling around 1,300 calls annually by 2016. 

Retired Hartford Fire and Rescue Chief Paul Stephans spearheaded an important transition in the department's emergency medical services. It involved an upgrade to the paramedic - level. 

"This is an improvement, providing the highest level of service to our community," Stephans said on WTKM at the time of the transition. "I'm proud of our department and all of the great people we have serving the community. This will make a difference and save lives."      

Stephans focused on improving patient outcomes by advancing from basic, to intermediate and eventually to paramedic-level service. 

The former Hartford fire chief and the department transitioned to provide advanced paramedic-level care, in which gave responders a chance to offer more advanced, life-saving skills like intravenous injections. 

Snow and scattered snow showers will linger for the next few days beginning Friday, January 16.

Weatherology Lead Forecaster Paul Trambley told WTKM that it is expected to be on the lighter side.

"We are going to see a broad area of low pressure that will build some bands of light snow showers across our area. Snow showers expected on Friday night, with scattered snow showers into Saturday. The focus will then turn to bitter cold temperatures."

A low temperature of 4 degrees is expected on Saturday night, January 17 and a high of only 2 degrees on Monday, January 19.  

Hartford City Council approved a Resolution on Tuesday, January 13 which will authorize continued conversations regarding county-wide Emergency Medical Services. 

Hartford City Administrator Steve Volkert says the approval will allow the discussions to continue.

"This is regarding the possibility of Washington County putting together a county-wide EMS service. We are not the first county to do so of some sort. The deal is, we would continue to have everything exactly the same way as it currently is, however, it would become a part of the levy for the county and not a levy for the city. We are interested in continuing to talk."  

The City of Hartford has been on a 10-year plan to increase staffing in order to address a growing call volume for EMS services. Due to the state imposed levy limits, the ability for the city to increase its staff has been halted due to shrinking limits for increased levy.

The development of the county-wide EMS system is under discussion.

It’s Winter on Main in Downtown West Bend.

It’s happening on Friday, January 16 and Saturday, January 17.

Downtown West Bend Association Executive Director Phil Fritsche told WTKM that there will be a lot going on.

"It's our first big event of the season. We will have a lot of things going on downtown. There will be dozens of these ice sculptures all along Main Street and some of our side streets downtown. We will have some special activities at Old Settlers Park." 

Sled dogs will be featured on Friday from 3 p.m. to 7p.m. Those friendly huskies will be available for pictures.

A live ice sculpture carving demonstration will take place on Saturday beginning at 11 a.m. Many ice sculptures will be ready for viewing on Friday.

A special event came together during a girl’s basketball game at Hartford Union High School on Tuesday, January 13. The Orioles played Arrowhead and both community members who attended the game raised a significant amount of money.

The funds will go to the Hall family of Hartford. Angie Hall, who has been a teacher at Hartford Union High School for 20 years, is navigating the challenges of ALS. Kristen Helms is a math teacher at Hartford Union High School and was one of the organizers. She told WTKM about Angie Hall. 

"My dear friend, she started to notice some changes in her health. She was diagnosed with ALS. It's a change that effects your motor neurons that impact your voluntary muscle. There is no cure. She has been a teacher in Hartford and has coached and advised various clubs. She certified our life guards and served on the safety team. She also decided to get certified to be an EMT. She is the epitome of service and unfortunately is unable to work." 

Angie Hall was named Teacher of the Year in 2019.

They raised $21,161.36 on Tuesday night.

Hartford City Council met Tuesday night, January 13 at Hartford City Hall.

A recommendation was approved for a basketball court at Homestead Park. Hartford Parks and Rec Director Randy Wojtasiak says it's part of the park development.

"The Capital Improvement Program includes forty thousand dollars in improved city funding for Homestead Park phase three  developments. The plan is to install a basketball court. This will not be a regulation size court."  

PLM Paving and Concrete won the bid and will take on the project for $35,500.

An approval was presented for a contract from Stryker Medical Equipment for EMS Capital equipment for the Hartford Fire and Rescue Department. It’s in the amount of $409,265.55 which is $5,149 less than the amount allocated.

An Executive Summary for an amendment of parking on Grant Street was discussed. Parking was allowed on both sides of the street, but with the addition of pickleball courts adjacent to West Side Park, they have increased traffic volume. When cars are parked on both sides of the street, the width of the road does not allow for two-way traffic. This situation is magnified when semi-truck traffic is present, which occurs regularly during working hours.

Following an evaluation of traffic flow in this area, the City of Hartford will add no parking restrictions and amend the current ordinance to extend no parking restrictions on the west side of Grant Street - south to West Sumner Street.

West Side Park has 22 parking lot spaces available near the new pickleball courts. 

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred on County Highway A near Prospect Road in Burnett.

On Thursday, January 8, around 6:19 a.m. a citizen called 911 to report a car driving erratically, including crossing the centerline, northbound on County Highway A near Juneau. A deputy was on County Highway A near Beaver Dam and began driving south to try to locate the car. The citizen caller stayed on the line as the deputy was responding, and eventually told dispatchers that the car had struck a semi, head-on.

The driver of the car was pronounced deceased at the scene and was identified as 33-year-old Justin Dean, from Whitewater. 

The driver of the semi was Richard Walker, a 38-year-old man from Burnett. He was not injured but evaluated and released at the scene by medical personnel.

The sheriff’s office was assisted by Horicon Fire Department and EMS, Burnett Fire Department and First Responders, Juneau Fire Department, and the Dodge County Medical Examiner.

The crash remains under investigation.

The Hartford Police Department reminds residents to plan ahead for a road closure. County Trunk K is closed to through traffic from Highway 60, to Patton Drive beginning Monday, January 12.

You will be required to find alternate routes through Thursday, January 15. 

Hartford’s 5th annual Polar Spray Challenge was held on Saturday, January 10 at the Hartford Fire and Rescue Department.

The fundraising event benefits Wisconsin Special Olympics, according to Hartford Special Olympics Fundraiser and Party Organizer Jackie Infalt. 

"This money that we raise this weekend is for Wisconsin Special Olympics. They run all of our tournaments, they run state competitions and they have to rent facilities, buy the medals and ribbons. I can't even explain to you how important these medals and ribbons are to the athletes. You can't imagine how excited they are when a medal is put around their neck for competing."

Over 30 athletes were sprayed down in the parking lot as it snowed on camera as part of the Special Olympics’ virtual Plunge Challenge. A few brave souls made snow angels.  

After the spray, participants warmed up inside the firehouse with hot chocolate, cake and hot dogs.

Photo by WTKM's Tom Jeffery.

A new museum is coming to downtown Hartford.

It's happening in cooperation with the Hartford Historical Society and the Hartford History Room. Gerry Schnorenberg told WTKM that it's going to be called Museum 53027.

"Starting sometime in March is when we will have our downtown displays available. We are looking for glass display cases, so we can display historical artifacts of Hartford in this new museum."

Call 262-305-1020 regarding the glass display cases and if you are interested in serving as a volunteer to help establish the museum    

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is recognized on Friday, January 9. It's a day dedicated to showing gratitude for law enforcement officers by wearing blue or sending thank-you notes to local departments.

Hartford Police Chief Scott MacFarlan has expressed his appreciation with WTKM, regarding the many officers he has worked with through the years.

"I am proud of our department, the dedicated officers we have care about the community and it shows in their work."

It's a chance to say "thank you" to law enforcement who have served and those that continue to protect and serve.      

Hartford’s Polar Spray Challenge is Saturday, January 10 at the Hartford Fire and Rescue Department at 111 West Wisconsin Street. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. with the spray at 10 a.m.

It benefits Special Olympics, according to Hartford Special Olympics Fundraiser and Party Organizer Jackie Infalt. 

"This money that we raise this weekend is for Wisconsin Special Olympics. They run all of our tournaments, they run state competitions and they have to rent facilities, buy the medals and ribbons. I can't even explain to you how important these medals and ribbons are to the athletes. You can't imagine how excited they are when a medal is put around their neck for competing."

Participants will be sprayed down on camera as part of the Special Olympics’ virtual Plunge Challenge. After the spray, warm up inside the City of Hartford firehouse with hot chocolate and hot dogs.

It's open to the community and you don't have to get sprayed in order to support Special Olympics.

Photo by the Hartford Special Olympics.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to report that a purse reported stolen from Holy Hill has been successfully recovered, following investigative work and assistance from the public.

After the initial report, deputies pursued multiple avenues, including outreach to regional law enforcement partners and a review of social media relating to Holy Hill during the Christmas holiday period. After posting a story about the investigation, the Sheriff’s Office received several tips indicating the purse had been returned and identifying a person believed to be involved.

Further investigation led deputies to a former residence associated with the victim, where the purse was located and recovered. The purse was left on the front porch. Preliminary checks indicate most of the contents of the purse, including a substantial amount of cash, were recovered and appear to be consistent with what was originally reported missing. Not all contents have been recovered. Final verification is ongoing, but the outcome is being considered a positive resolution.

“We are extremely grateful for the public’s willingness to share information and for the role social media played in bringing this case to a successful conclusion,” said Washington County Sheriff Martin Schulteis in a press release. “Posts from our sheriff’s office social media page helped this information reach the right people quickly. This case is a strong reminder that social media and the news media are important public safety tools when used responsibly.”

Some follow-up investigation remains, at the time of this story. The Washington County Sheriff's Office is working with the victim to determine the level of law enforcement action that will be taken.

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred on County Highway A, near Prospect Road in Burnett. It happened on Thursday, January 8 at 6:19 a.m.

A citizen called 911 to report a car driving erratically, including crossing the centerline, northbound on County Highway A near Juneau. A deputy was on County Highway A near Beaver Dam and began driving south to try to locate the car. The citizen stayed on the line as the deputy was responding, and eventually told dispatchers that the car had struck a semi, head-on.

The driver of the car was pronounced deceased at the scene. His identity and hometown are under investigation.

The driver of the semi was the only one in the vehicle. He was a 38-year-old man from Burnett. He was not injured but evaluated and released at the scene by medical personnel.

Horicon Fire Department and EMS assisted, along with the Burnett Fire Department and First Responders, Juneau Fire Department, and the Dodge County Medical Examiner. The crash remains under investigation.

It's a public information meeting on Tuesday, January 13 at the Oconomowoc Police Department, at 630 E. Wisconsin Avenue at 6:30 p.m. Discussions are planned for the upcoming extension project of Lake Bluff Drive, by Crystal Lake.

The expectations of the project, which is scheduled to begin in March of this year, includes connectors with the creation of roads and walkways. it also includes a bridge over Rosenow Creek. 

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is cooperating and working with the City of Oconomowoc, according to the project presentation.

Bidding for the project is scheduled for the month of January, 2026.

It will improve the connectivity within the City of Oconomowoc, according to a traffic impact analysis. Currently, residents along North Lake Road use either Ridge Court by Valley Road or Sunset Lane to access North Lake Road.   

The Hartford Food Pantry continues to be busy, and continues to make a difference.

Hartford Food Pantry Board President Jason Wix told WTKM that they have a great team.

"The food pantry's board of directors and our volunteers do a great job. Thinking about how last year ended, we had around a dozen new families visit each week. We are busy and we are keeping up with the demand. We do not turn anyone away. You need to be a resident of the Hartford Union High School district."  

Donations are welcome, and have continued to come in consistently. The Aurora Medical Center's Washington County medical staff donated $10,000 in 2024 and $25,000 last year. Students at Hartford Union High School donated around 1,000 boxes of cereal last year after putting together a cereal drive. A wish list is on their website, hartfordfoodpantry.org

The Hartford Food Pantry is located at 24 North Johnson Street, in the City of Hartford. They are open Tuesdays, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays, they are open from noon to 3 p.m.

On Monday, January 12 the United States Department of Agriculture will release several reports, including the World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimates.

Market Advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend John Heinberg told the Mid-West Farm Report about what has the most potential.

"Corn is probably the one with the most potential, given the global supply. There is a demand for corn that is out there at this time frame."                                            

The full list of reports include the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates, Crop Production, Grain Stocks, Winter Wheat and Canola Seedings, Cotton Ginnings, Rice Stocks, Turkey Hatchery and Crop Areage Data. 

These reports are known to be the most volatile and influential of the year for the corn, soybean, and wheat markets because they include final 2025 production estimates and updated balance sheets. 

Christmas tree pickup dates have been announced.

Monday, January 12 in the Village of Kewaskum. Please place your tree at the curb with all decorations removed. 

The City of West Bend Public Works Department offers curbside collection of Christmas trees during the third week of January. Christmas trees will be collected on the same day as residents’ regular garbage pickup. Residents are asked to remove all plastic bags and decorations from the tree and place it at the curb or alley line for collection. 

The City of Watertown continues with curbside holiday tree collection on Wednesday. January 7, Thursday, January 8 and Friday, January 9. Lights, ornaments, nails, wires, tree stands, and plastic bags must be removed from the trees.

A Hartford Police officer conducted a traffic stop involving a vehicle with two people. While speaking with them, the officer suspected drug activity. Hartford’s K-9 Flash was requested to the scene and provided a positive alert on the vehicle for the presence of drugs.

During a search, officers located one ounce of cocaine along with various items of drug paraphernalia. The driver admitted to obtaining the substance through a drug deal. The driver attempted to smash his cell phone, which was receiving continuous calls from multiple phone numbers. The driver then began to fight with officers, but was eventually placed into handcuffs.

Evidence of drug dealing was later located on the driver’s phone.

The passenger was determined to be on probation and parole, was also in possession of drug paraphernalia, and is believed to have been involved in the drug dealing.

Charges recommended for the driver include possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting and obstructing.

Charges recommended for the passenger include possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The Richfield Historical Society is set for another year.

The group, which started in 1997, preserves and promotes the history of the Village of Richfield.

Joni Crovello served as the president of the Richfield Historical Society last year, and told WTKM that it's the members that make everything happen.

"It's amazing that we have quite a few people in our society that started the society. We have a lot of talented people with a lot of knowledge. We have two hundred fifteen families that are members and many volunteers." 

They continue to provide opportunities to connect with history.

The Richfield Historical Society’s monthly programs will begin this month on Thursday, January 22 at the Richfield Fire Hall at 7 p.m. Information will be shared about the Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation and how they have partnered with property owners to conserve over 3,200 acres of land. The goal is a future landscape which maintains a balance between natural and developed areas with the water, fields, farms and forests.

The programs are held on the fourth Thursday of each month from January to May, and September through November.

Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt has recognized a scam.

It involves a person who continues to pose as a member of the Dodge County Sheriff's Office. A recent attempt involved identifying himself as Sergeant Tom Williams of the sheriff's office. There is no Sergeant Tom Williams that works for the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office.

This scammer has spoofed his phone number as coming from multiple phone numbers, including the actual phone number of the Waupun Police Department.  

This scammer is trying to get you to believe that you have a warrant for contempt of court and wants you to report to a location. He will then attempt to "collect a bond from you" or he will find some other way to scam you out of money.

Contact the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office with any questions.

West Bend Police officers responded to a report of a four-year-old child who was struck by a vehicle in a parking lot on Paradise Drive, in West Bend. It happened Monday morning, December 5 around 11:10 a.m. The child was transported to a hospital, and remains in stable condition at the time of this story.

A 28-year-old woman from Hartford was driving the vehicle, and was placed in the Washington County Jail. Requested charges include causing injury while operating with a restricted controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of prescription medication without a prescription.

Many fire departments in Wisconsin are actively recruiting and looking for new members.

From large cities to smaller volunteer departments, there are opportunities, according to Washington County Chief Public Safety Officer Dave Seager.

"If you have any interest in helping your community and have an interest in firefighting or emergency medical services, please go to one of our thirteen departments in Washington County. We would be happy to have you." 

85 percent of rural fire departments in Wisconsin operate entirely with volunteers.

There is good news for the Jackson Fire Department who recently welcomed seven new members to their department, including a former member who rejoined. They were issued their pagers and will start responding to calls in a limited capacity while completing their initial training. Each new member must complete Fire School and obtain Firefighter l, Firefighter ll, and Hazmat certifications. They must also complete Emergency Medical Responder training.

The new members include Rock Schuett, Jonathan Lueck, Dillion Hunter, Alex Tewes,

Dan Swoboda, Damon Ybarra and Brendan Blackmore. Cody Stene, who is a former member of the Jackson Fire Department, has rejoined. 

Election deadlines were announced for this year during a Hartford Common Council meeting in December. Hartford City Clerk Shanna Kreilkamp discussed the candidacy deadline. 

"Anyone pulling nomination papers has to have everything turned in by January sixth."

Current 1st District Hartford Alderperson Jeff Turchi has turned in paperwork. 2nd District Alderperson Chad Waldvogel has pulled papers and 3rd District Alderperson Tina Savage has also pulled election paperwork.

Flu cases were on the rise in Wisconsin at the end of the year, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

Flu activity was labeled as "very high" the week of December 21 to December 27, which was up from "moderate" the week before.

"While most people associate respiratory illness with simply feeling under the weather for a day or two, these viruses can have serious consequences for people who are at higher risk, especially young children, older adults, and people who are pregnant or have chronic health conditions," said DHS Immunization Program Manager Dr. Stephanie Schauer, in a press release. "It takes about two weeks after getting a vaccine for your body to build immunity against the virus."

The increase in cases is typical this time of the year, with many people traveling and attending holiday parties.

Photo by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

The Allenton Fire Department recently revealed a new ambulance. It's the Allenton 1353, and it made its in-service debut on Friday, January 2.

Allenton Fire Chief Breuer told WTKM that it's an upgrade.

"There is nothing wrong with the other ambulance, but it is an upgrade for us. We do it on a regular rotation schedule. It includes newer technology. We have a new AED and defibrillator in place with the new ambulance that we are putting on board, and training our people with that. We usually keep our ambulances for ten years. We ordered the new one in March, almost three years ago."    

Before hitting the road, the 1353 received a full professional detail. It was carefully stocked and equipped with top-of-the-line medical equipment, ensuring their crews are ready to provide the highest level of care. 

From bumper to bumper, 1353 is emergency-ready and built to perform when seconds matter most.

Photo by the Allenton Fire Department.

Clyman-Lowell-Reeseville Fire and Rescue were called to a structure fire in Clyman on Saturday, January 3 around 2:45 p.m. on Highway 60.

The fire was contained. Three dogs were rescued and reunited with their owners.

Firefighters from Hustisford and Juneau assisted, with mutual aid coming from area fire departments from Hustisford, Juneau, Watertown and Lebanon. The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office also assisted.

The fire was put out.

There were no injuries reported.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

It's an annual tradition to recognize all of the great people and businesses that make Hartford what it is - a great place to live, work and play.

The Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce extended a formal invitation to attend their Annual Dinner and Awards on Thursday, January 29 at the Chandelier Ballroom in Hartford.

The theme is A Night at the Derby.

This annual event serves as a celebration of achievements, community spirit of local businesses, and provides an opportunity to fund programs and initiatives that support their mission: fostering economic growth, networking, educational workshops, advocacy for businesses, and local community events.

Contact the Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce at 262-673-7002 with any questions regarding sponsorship opportunities.

The announcement was made, as we usher in a new year.

Area law enforcement around Washington County lifted the winter parking restrictions due to the recent snow-less forecast, and in order to provide area families with the opportunity to park their vehicles on the street during the holiday season. 

"In many cases, families have kids that are returning home from college for winter break, or relatives visiting for Christmas," according to Hartford City Administrator Steve Volkert. We try and make things easier, in this case, so area residents can leave their vehicles out on the street overnight and don't have to worry about the winter restrictions."

The rules are back in place, officially in effect once again. 

The City of Hartford suspended winter parking rules from December 23 until January 1. The Jackson Police Department used the same dates to lift their winter parking regulations. The Kewaskum Police Department also temporarily suspended their winter parking from December 24 until January 1.   

The grocery stores have been busy through the holiday season.

CEO for the Center of Food Integrity Charlie Arnot discusses some of the factors that go into grocery store purchases.

"Consumers make purchasing decisions based on a lot of different factors. What we know is that people are more likely to buy products, and be supportive of agriculture if they believe those in agriculture share their values. We are trying to understand some of the beliefs and values of different segments of consumers."                                      

Strong consumer spending was reported during the holiday season last year, according to the National Retail Federation.  

Deputies with the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported domestic violence incident on Oakwood Road in the Village of Lisbon Thursday night, January 1 around 7:21 p.m.

A 64-year-old man intentionally directed his dog toward a deputy. The dog bit the deputy, forcing the deputy to use deadly force against the animal to stop the attack.

The subject was taken into custody and later transported to the Waukesha County Jail on charges of battery to a law enforcement officer with use of a dangerous weapon.

The deputy sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at a local hospital.

The incident remains under investigation.