We did not have time for County Board announcements at last night’s meeting, but thanks to Supervisor Mary Kolar, we have this written update:

With the beautiful warm days we’ve have been having lately, I hope you’ve been able to get out and enjoy a Dane County Park. My Dane County Board progressive colleagues and I are focused on maintaining and expanding the many free recreation opportunities we offer, from clean lakes to fish, boat and swim in — to bike trails — to the over 12,000 acres of land on which we manage parks, forests and campgrounds. I hope you can enjoy these free resources in the coming months.

Our progressive priorities also include improving our criminal justice system by diverting more individuals from the system and improving the facilities in which we house those who are incarcerated. Dane County is looking at options for replacing outdated, dangerous housing in the City-County Building and at providing appropriate housing for those with mental health and medical needs who are incarcerated.

On, June 15th, the Board will be meeting as a “committee of the whole” to hear from our consultant on Jail options. The consultant’s recommendations will take into account County Workgroup recommendations that will result in greater diversion from jail and greater equity in our criminal justice practices — as a result, we know that the consultant will be recommending a decrease in the total number of jail cells. If you are interested in this issue, please join us at 6 PM on June 15.

Finally, even as we are looking forward to warmer weather, the County is planning for the return of colder days. Dane County recently announced that naming of the Homeless Day Resource Center – it will be called The Beacon – And, it is expected to open October 1st – in time for winter.
These are just some Dane County highlights.

Please reach out to me or your Dane County Supervisor to learn more.