From LaVerne Gordee

President, Jordan Lutheran Church Council

To the editor:

I’m writing on behalf of the Jordan Lutheran Church Congregation to express the congregation’s sincere appreciation for all those that helped to implement and pass AB445 in the State Legislature. Wisconsin AB445 is an exception to commercial building code requirements for the installation and operation of a stairway chair lift in a church constructed before 1919. As such, this bill affects a small number of churches statewide. It does however, have a huge favorable impact on our congregation. For Representative Todd Novak and Senator Howard Marklein to address the concerns of a small, rural church, is above and beyond. I have worked with state legislators in the past and I can say in all sincerity, that Rep. Novak, Sen. Marklein, and their respective staff, are truly the best at serving their constituency. I also want to thank Governor Evers for signing the bill into law. The entire process was handled with bipartisan support. What a blessing in a time of so much political division!

I would be remiss not to thank Browntown Fire Chief Dave Plath, and Green County Fire Building Inspector John Walters. These two men made certain that our congregation would not be endangered by the installation of a stairway chairlift in our church. Thank you Dave and John. My hat is off to you for your help.

Finally, thank you Emily and the Monroe Times for featuring our church in your paper. Perhaps other older churches will read of the change in law and be able to install a chairlift in their building? 

May God bless each of you.