DARLINGTON — At the City of Darlington meeting held on Tuesday, April 4, there was an update to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Economic Development grant for Wisconsin Whey Protein, Inc. (WWP) warehouse project in the amount of a maximum of $150,000 was discussed.

City Attorney Aaron Stauffacher explained, “At a previous meeting a representative from WWP had relayed that CDBG funds would not be dispersed until they proved that they had complied with the grant, that is not the case. Funds would be dispersed when equipment is purchased and installed. At that point the company has up to two years to comply with the condition (employ fifteen full time positions). The city would be on the hook for $150,000, until the company shows compliance. That’s not what was related to us at the last meeting.”

An assumption and indemnity agreement was drafted to protect the city, in case WWP does not fulfill their obligations.

Alder Erin Gallagher noted that if the city did have to pay the $150,000 back to the state, the city may have to borrow monies to repay the state and asked that wording be included that WWP would be responsible for any expenses the city would incur.

It wasn’t clear if 15 employees needed to be retained, to meet the criteria or when the funds need to be paid back to the state (after the city got paid from WWP, on demand from the state).

Clerk-Treasurer Phil Risseeuw said it was his understanding that the state would take the unpaid funds from the city’s shared revenue. 

The city approved the indemnity agreement with the additions that were brought up.

In other city business:

●  Approved Resolution 2023-07, a resolution that officially vacate a portion of Pelco Drive (within the first addition Darlington Business Park). This action was taken after a public hearing that was held just prior to this meeting.

●  Librarian Candi Fitzsimmons was present to give her annual public library report. At the end of 2022 the Johnson Public Library had 27,049 printed books owned, 170,747 electronic books, 705 audio materials, 68,226 electronic downloadable audio materials and 2,604 video materials. Programs had decreased during covid years and the number of programs will increase in months ahead.

Alder Steve Pickett suggested an effort be made that electronic books be counted.

A renewal for a program to research grants that may be available, will be put on next meetings agenda.

Pat Gallagher will be hired as children’s librarian.

●  Approved the hiring of summer employees for the swimming pool, park and rec programs, concession stands and umpires.

●  Approved paying March 2023 voucher in the amount of $742,707.

●  Approved February 2023 financial statements for City, Water Dept. and Sewer Dept.

●  Police Commission met on March 28, 2023. Chief Jason King presented his yearly report. A current part-time officer Jason Lamb was promoted to full-time.

Mayor Mike McDermott thanked Erin Gallagher for her six years of service on the city council. Gallagher said it was an honor.